Atlanta's longest-running event celebrates its 142nd year! Since 1858, the Atlanta St. Patrick's Parade has brought the spirit of the Irish to Midtown Atlanta on Peachtree Street.
Join us SaThe 142nd Annual Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade is one of the Southeast’s most enduring traditions, dating back to 1858. In 2026, the city will celebrate on Saturday, March 14, 2026, bringing a heavy dose of Irish luck to the streets of Midtown.
☘️ Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade 2026: Official Event Guide
🕒 Event Schedule & Timing
- Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026 (Rain or shine).
- Parade Start: 12:00 PM (Noon).
- Parade End: Approximately 1:30 PM.
- Official 5K: The 11th Annual St. Patrick’s Parade 5K kicks off at 9:30 AM in front of Fado Irish Pub (Midtown).
📍 The Route
The parade marches through the heart of Midtown Atlanta along Peachtree Street:
- Start: Peachtree Street and 15th Street (near the High Museum of Art).
- The Path: Heading South on Peachtree Street.
- Finish: Peachtree Street and 5th Street.
- Best Viewing: The area around Colony Square (14th St) is the high-energy hub of the parade, featuring the official post-parade party.
🎖️ Participants & Theme
The Atlanta parade is famous for its diversity, featuring over 2,000 participants, including:
- Groups: Irish dancers, bagpipe and drum corps, historical units, and local dignitaries.
- Unusual Guests: Keep an eye out for the Great Pyrenees Rescue of Atlanta, the "Big Idaho Potato Tour," and the 501st Legion (Star Wars).
- Theme: The event emphasizes a "family-first" atmosphere where "everybody is Irish" regardless of background.
🚉 Transportation & Parking
Midtown traffic is extremely heavy on parade day. MARTA is the recommended travel method.
- Subway: Use the Arts Center station (closest to the start) or the Midtown station (closest to the finish).
- Driving: If you must drive, several parking decks are available nearby:
- Colony Square (14th St)
- Promenade II (15th St)
- Campanile (Juniper St)
- Road Closures: Staggered closures on Peachtree Street (from Beverly Rd to 3rd St) typically begin at 9:00 AM and last until roughly 2:30 PM.
🎒 Spectator Pro-Tips
- Post-Parade Party: Immediately following the parade, head to "Luck of the Square" at Colony Square (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) for live music, drinks, and Irish dancers.
- What to Wear: Atlanta weather in mid-March is usually pleasant ($55–65°F), but the parade goes on even in the rain—bring a green poncho just in case!
- Arrival: To get a spot directly against the barricades on Peachtree, plan to be in place by 10:30 AM.
Fun Fact: The Atlanta St. Patrick's Parade is older than the city's modern skyline; it was established by the Hibernian Benevolent Society over 160 years ago!
turday, March 14, 2026 from Noon to 1:30 PM for this beloved tradition featuring:
• 700+ Musicians & Irish Dancers
• 2,000+ Participants
• 16 Parade Units
• Marching bands, floats, clowns, Bagpipe & Drum Corps, and more!
The parade travels through Midtown Atlanta on Peachtree Street, rain or shine. Broadcast Partner: Atlanta News First on Peachtree TV. Presenting Sponsor: Coca-Cola. Free public event - bring the whole family!
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Peachtree Street - Midtown Atlanta, Peachtree Street, Midtown Atlanta, Atlanta, United States
