Sydney St. Patrick's Day Parade & Festival 2026

Sydney goes green as everyone welcome for St. Patrick’s Day spectacle

The Irish Welcome You is the message as thousands are expected to descend on The Rocks and Circular Quay for the annual celebration of Irish culture, heritage and community spirit. With more than 25,000 people expected to line the streets, the world-class parade will enjoy an extended route to accommodate growing crowds before revellers make their way to First Fleet Park for a day filled with Irish music, dance, food and craic!

The parade - 11am Martin Place – Circular Quay

A much-loved tradition for young and old, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade will feature pipe bands, Irish dancers, stilt walkers, children’s characters, as well as Molly Malone, St. Brigid and of course St. Patrick himself. With 1,500 participants from more than 70 groups embracing this year’s theme, The Irish Welcome You, Failte & Slainte spectators can enjoy a colourful display of community and cultural pride. A fleet of vintage cars draped in green, white and gold are sure to be a highlight.

Free, family-friendly Festival

First Fleet Park is home to the Main Stage where festival goers can enjoy a full day of free entertainment while overlooking the Sydney Opera House. Fresh off the stage of The Voice Australia, Euan Hart will be entertaining crowds from 12 noon. Influenced by his Irish heritage, Euan will be showcasing new music and Irish favourites.

At 1pm, five-time World Irish Dance Champion Liam Costello will captivate audiences with his fast feet and infectious rhythm. Widely considered to be the best Irish dancer of all time, Sydney local Liam will perform both a traditional and modern set.

Fun for the kids

Bligh & Barney Reserve is again home to the dedicated children’s area where our youngest party goers can connect to their Irish roots

with Irish dance displays, face-painting, art and craft and plenty of Irish treats to enjoy. Balloon artists, hula hoopers and famous characters will keep the kids entertained

With the Irish language enjoying a major resurgence, kids can learn their first ‘cupla focal’ with some fun games and activities and even take home Leabhrann Beag Gaelige (a little book of Irish) to remember the day.

Citizenship Ceremony

Another unique element of the festival is the Citizen Ceremony which takes place with the support of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. This year sees 45 people receiving their Australian Citizenship with the iconic Sydney Opera House as the backdrop.

Make it a Long Weekend

With St. Patrick’s Day itself falling on Tuesday March 17th, why not make it a long weekend of non-stop celebrations? Check out our website for a full list of all the St. Patrick’s Day events.

Irish Outdoor Cinema

Celebrate Irish cinema and kick off the long weekend of celebrations early with a free screening of Sing Street at the St. Patrick’s Day Outdoor Cinema on Thursday 12th of March. With Guinness and Jameson on offer, it’s sure to be an enchanting evening.