Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Berkeley

Put on your favorite green attire and visit an Irish pub, take in our lush green spaces, or attend festive local events, for a St. Patty’s Day you won’t soon forget.

Here’s how to make the most of St. Patrick’s Day in the East Bay:

Grab a Pint at Local Pubs & Restaurants

Toast to St. Patrick’s Day with a pint of Guinness or your favorite craft brew at one of Berkeley’s lively breweries and bars. For an authentic Irish experience, head to The Starry Plough, a beloved local spot offering hearty Irish fare, a wide selection of drinks, and nightly live entertainment, including traditional Irish music and dancing.

Enjoy an Irish-Inspired Picnic at Tilden Park

Pack a basket filled with Irish favorites like corned beef sandwiches– you can make your own or pick some up from Saul’s Restaurant & Deli- and green cupcakes. Tilden Park’s beautiful scenery is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing St. Patrick’s Day picnic.

Wander Through Berkeley’s Green Spaces

St. Patrick's Day is a great time to stroll through our lush green gardens that provide a perfect natural setting to celebrate the holiday. Explore the diverse plant life at the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden, take in the stunning views at Berkeley Rose Garden, or admire the blooming flowers at Tilden Regional Park Botanic Garden.

Tour the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA)

Spend the weekend leading up to St. Patty’s Day exploring the exhibits and captivating films at BAMPFA. Don’t miss Open: Art Lab on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, where visitors of all ages can explore hands-on activities like collage, artist’s stamps, and activities inspired by the museum’s current exhibitions. Note: BAMPFA is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

Attend St. Patrick’s Day Events

San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Make Berkeley your home base for the 174th Annual San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day Parade–one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations on the West Coast. Stay in Berkeley to enjoy cozy hotels, fantastic dining, and lively Irish pubs, all with convenient BART access to the heart of San Francisco’s festivities.

For the latest details on St. Patty's Day weekend happenings, check our Events Calendar.

Avoid getting pinched this St. Patrick’s Day by wearing your best green attire! Need to add some festive flair to your wardrobe? Our boutiques and thrift shops are bound to have what you’re looking for.