St. Patrick's Day turns cities across America green with parades, music, and celebrations of Irish culture. Whether you are planning to march, watch a parade, or just make sure you are wearing green, this live countdown shows how much time is left until March 17.
St. Patrick's Day at a glance
- Next date
- Wednesday, March 17, 2027
- Day of the week
- Wednesday
- How the date is set
- St. Patrick's Day is celebrated every year on March 17
- Category
- Holidays
St. Patrick's Day dates for the next 5 years
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | Wednesday | |
| 2028 | Friday | |
| 2029 | Saturday | |
| 2030 | Sunday | |
| 2031 | Monday |
Who was St. Patrick?
Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. Born in Roman Britain in the 5th century, he was kidnapped as a teenager and taken to Ireland as a slave. After escaping, he later returned as a missionary and is credited with spreading Christianity across the island. March 17 is traditionally recognized as the day he died.
According to legend, Patrick used the three-leaf shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity, which is why the shamrock became a symbol of the day and of Ireland itself.
An American celebration
Some of the world's biggest St. Patrick's Day celebrations happen in the United States, driven by generations of Irish immigrants. Boston and New York held some of the earliest celebrations in the 1700s, and the New York City parade is now one of the largest in the world.
Chicago has dyed its river bright green every year since 1962, and towns across the country host parades, Irish music, and corned beef and cabbage dinners. And of course, anyone not wearing green risks getting pinched.
Frequently asked questions
When is St. Patrick's Day 2027?
St. Patrick's Day 2027 is on Wednesday, March 17, 2027. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated every year on March 17.
How many days until St. Patrick's Day?
The live countdown at the top of this page shows exactly how many days, hours, minutes, and seconds are left until St. Patrick's Day, calculated for your local time zone.
Is St. Patrick's Day a federal holiday?
No. St. Patrick's Day is not a federal holiday in the United States, although it is a public holiday in Ireland. Some cities hold their parades on the nearest weekend.
Why do people wear green on St. Patrick's Day?
Green is linked to Ireland's nickname, the Emerald Isle, and to the shamrock. American folklore adds that wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns, who pinch anyone they can see.