09 Mar 3 NYC ST. PATRICK’S DAY PUB CELEBRATIONS

Everyone gets to be Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, and what better place to celebrate than New York? Few cities celebrate the holiday better than New York.

In fact, the region is home to the tradition of American festivities, which originated in the mid-1700s as a statement of pride in heritage among Irish immigrants, many of whom were facing significant housing and employment discrimination in the United States. New York City also hosted the first St. Patrick’s Day Parade in 1762, which has since grown to be one of the largest parades in the world.

Each year, 2 million spectators convene to watch bagpipers and dancers and retreat into pubs for green beer, pints of Guinness and Irish car bombs. Consider these options for a little St. Patrick’s Day entertainment, whether you’re interested in celebrating a true “New York” experience or hoping to emulate an evening in Cork.

STAY SAFE OUT THERE

St. Patrick’s Day is widely considered one of the most dangerous weekends of the year for both motorists and pedestrians. On a day where you’re likely to be consuming your fair share of alcoholic beverages, driving a personal car shouldn’t even be an option. Plus, no one wants to deal with New York’s ridiculous parking regulations, sober or not.

Be safe. On a weekend as busy at St. Patrick’s Day, cabs, rideshare apps and car service will be in high demand. Reserve car service ahead of time, so you’re able to enjoy shepherd’s pie and a few pints of Guinness to the fullest. You’ll get to experience an evening of party bus rental — party bus, anyone? — and there are few options safer than a professionally-trained defensive driver.

MOLLY’S PUB

287 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010

Often hailed as the most authentic Irish pub in New York City, Murray Hill’s Molly’s Shebeen Pub has been serving patrons since the ‘60s. Visitors are welcomed with an authentic wood-burning fireplace, a sawdust floor and friendly bartenders.

Before an evening of revelry, you’ll want to load up on their Irish shebeen (Gaelic for “speakeasy”) favorites, like shepherd’s pie and lamb stew. Come St. Patrick’s Day weekend, it’s bound to be on the crowded side. Crowds are known to line up down the block. We think it’s worth the wait.

MCSORLEY’S OLD ALE HOUSE

15 E 7th Street, New York, NY 10003

Established in 1854, McSorley’s is the oldest continuously operating saloon in the city, and it was one of the last “men only” pubs until 1970. During the Prohibition era, alcohol was served in the basement. It’s quite the institution. Just look at some of the names who have passed through its doors: Abraham Lincoln, Woody Guthrie and John Lennon have all paid a visit.

McSorley’s is not the best place for the beer-intolerant or discerning palates, considering that the only choices are dark and light ales. No hot foods are served, though there’s a seemingly endless supply of hot mustard and pretzels.

CONNOLLY’S PUB & RESTAURANT

121 W 45th Street, New York, NY 10036

Family-owned and operated, Connolly’s offers what they describe as “the best Irish pub experience in town.” The on-site music venue, The Klub 45 Room, has a full line-up of on St. Patrick’s Day that kicks off bright and early at 6 a.m. Catch performances by The Wolfe Tones, Jameson Revenge and Shilelagh Law. The Boomer and Carton sports radio show will be broadcasting from the pub on St. Patrick’s Day.

Reserve a table online if you’re planning on enjoying pub fare out for dinner or plan to indulge in the food and drink specials. Domestics and imports are available on tap.