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St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Phoenix

By Judy Hedding, About.com

St. Patrick's Day Parade

St. Patrick's Day Parade in Phoenix

© Irish Cultural Center of Phoenix, Arizona

The year 1984 marked the beginning of an annual tradition in Phoenix, when the original downtown St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire made its debut. Now, you can expect about 50,000 spectators to line 3rd Street in Phoenix to enjoy the parade, and then move to the location of the Irish Family Faire for the rest of the day. The theme for this year's event is "Go Green - Be Green."

Enjoy this photo gallery of the Phoenix St. Patrick's Day Parade and the Faire.

What Happens at the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire?

The Parade has marching bands, Irish step dancers, bagpipers, police and fire vehicles, government dignitaries, floats, and the Arizona Irish Colleen with her Court.

After the parade, the Irish Family Faire will begin. There you will enjoy two stages of live Irish music, Irish Step dancing, and Bagpipers. You can research your Irish ancestry, browse or purchase Irish crafts & merchandise, and drop by the food court featuring Irish grub and beverages. Bring the wee lads and lassies--there's a children's area just for them offering face painting, a petting zoo, games, and activities.

When is the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire?

In 2009 the Parade and the Faire will take place on March 14. The Phoenix St. Patrick's Day Parade begins at 10 a.m. The Irish Family Faire begins at 10:30 a.m. and ends at about 5 p.m.

Where is the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire?

The Parade starts at 3rd Street & Virginia, and proceeds south to Margaret T. Hance Deck Park. The Faire is held at The Irish Cultural Center at 1106 North Central Avenue (west side of Central Avenue at Culver). Here's a map and directions to Margaret T. Hance Deck Park.

How do I get tickets for St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire and how much are they?

There are no tickets for the Parade; it's free. Faire admission is $10 for people ages 12 & over, $1 for ages 6 – 12, and kids under 6 are admitted free.

What else should I know about St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire?

Free parking is available at both 2600 and 2800 North Central Avenue. A free shuttle will run back and forth from the 2600 N. Central (Virginia just west of Central Avenue), shuttle bus hours of operation 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

This year you can get to the Parade and Faire via METRO light rail. The closest station is Central/Roosevelt. Here's a light rail map.

Do you have photos of the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire?

Yes! Here's a photo gallery of the parade and the Faire.

What if I have more questions about the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire?

For more information, call 602-280-9221 or visit the Phoenix St. Patrick's Day Parade and Irish Family Faire online.

All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.

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