Boston will transform into a sea of green this weekend with the return of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade! It’s an annual tradition in the city and one of the oldest in the country. The parade takes place in South Boston, one of Boston’s neighborhoods rich with Irish history. However, things may look a little different this year (or familiar, depending on your age) as the parade route is being rerouted!
When is Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade?
St. Patrick’s Day this year falls on a Tuesday, so the parade, which is always held on a weekend, arrives early! The parade takes place on Sunday, March 15. Crowds line the parade route in anticipation of the festivities, which commence at 11:30 AM!
2026 South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade Route
This year’s parade occurs in reverse of the usual route. Since 1988 the parade began at Broadway Station in South Boston and traveled to Andrews Square. This week, officials announced the parade takes its usual 3.5-mile route, but in reverse:
- Start: 11:30 AM at Andrew Station
- Dorchester Street
- Right on Telegraph Street
- Circle Thomas Park
- Left on G Street
- Right on 6th Street
- Left on K Street
- Right on 4th Street
- Left on P Street
- Left on East Broadway
- Right on West Broadway
- Finish around 1 PM at Broadway Station
The route historically flip flopped in the opposite direction for nearly the last 40 years. Prior to 1988, this is the route the parade usually took, making it familiar for some. Officials shared the reversal of the route is a way to honor the parade’s early history and a nod to the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade route history
Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day parade dates back to 1737 and ranks among the nation’s longest continuously running St. Patrick’s Day Parade’s. The early parades were less organized. In 1901, the parade moved to South Boston due to the neighborhood’s robust Irish community.
Parade-related Boston road closures
Road closures and parking bans are enforced on Sunday, March 15 all day. 22 South Boston streets will be closed to vehicles and parking. Free shuttles will run between South Station and South Boston for parade access
