Michigan City is preparing to paint the town green with a variety of festive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. From traditional parades to specialty shopping, Irish pubs, and athletic events, there’s something for everyone looking to embrace their Irish spirit—whether you have Celtic heritage or are simply Irish for the day.
This year’s celebrations extend beyond the traditional March 17th holiday, with events spanning nearly two weeks that showcase Michigan City’s community spirit and appreciation for Irish culture. From family-friendly activities to adult beverages and entertainment, here’s your comprehensive guide to experiencing the luck of the Irish throughout Michigan City this season.
Michigan City St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Michigan City’s beloved St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns on Saturday, March 15th, at 1:00 pm, bringing a festive Irish spirit to downtown as it follows its traditional route north on Franklin Street from 9th Street to 4th Street. The community celebration will feature a diverse lineup, including bagpipe bands, dance teams, local businesses, and even the XInsurance Great Lakes Grand Prix race boat “Crazy Rhythm.” Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch will be joining the festivities. This parade marks the first major event of Michigan City’s 2025 calendar, with Special Events Director Terry Greetham noting it will “kick off what we believe will be an amazing event season.” Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for a food drive benefiting the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, organized by the Real Housewives of LaPorte County. Don’t forget to wave to the JOYRide drivers who will be in the parade!
Learn more about the parade here.
ShamROCK n’ ROLL at Uptown Social
Join the festive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Michigan City this Saturday, March 15th, starting with the Michigan City Parade on Franklin Street at 1:00 PM. Following the parade, adults 21 and over can head to Uptown Social (907 Franklin St, Michigan City, IN 46360) for their ShamROCK n’ ROLL After Parade Event featuring free entry, a special BOGO drink hour from 2:00-3:00 PM, and karaoke starting at 4:00 PM. For additional information about this exciting post-parade celebration, visit the Uptown Social website or Facebook page to join fellow revelers in this lively St. Patrick’s Day tradition.
Learn more about this event here.
5th Annual St. Patrick’s Day 5k Color Run
Michigan City’s fifth annual St. Patrick’s Day 5K Color Run/Walk, presented by Notre Dame Catholic School, promises a festive celebration of Irish spirit and community wellness on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Taking place on the school’s picturesque 32-acre campus at 1000 Moore Road, the event kicks off at 8:00 am CST with elite runners leading the way, followed by family groups, stroller participants, and a special Kids Dash Color Run. Registration costs $30 for adults (including a race shirt and post-race drink ticket) and $15 for students aged 4-20, with children under 3 participating for free. After crossing the finish line, participants can enjoy a lively post-race celebration featuring the Rohr’s Notre Dame Food Truck, refreshments from Bridges Waterside Grille, and authentic Irish entertainment from The Dennehy-Mayer School of Irish Dance and The McKee/Wall Irish Band. The event also features a “Pot of Gold Raffle” with cash prizes up to $10,000 and a Golden Shamrock Hunt with Amazon gift card rewards. Professionally timed by T&H Timing, the race will award medals to top performers in various categories. Early registration is strongly encouraged, as fees increase after March 10th and registration closes entirely on March 17th.
Learn more about this event here.
Lucky’s Irish Pop-Up-Pub at Leeds Public House
For a truly authentic Irish pub experience this St. Patrick’s Day, head to Leeds Public House as it transforms into Lucky’s Irish Pop-Up-Pub from March 14th through March 17th. The venue will be decked out in festive decor to create a genuine Irish atmosphere while serving traditional Irish fare alongside, including corned beef and cabbage, along with their special 2025 Lucky’s cocktail collection. Guinness and Jameson will be flowing freely, bringing the spirit of Ireland to life over the four-day celebration. Visitors can still enjoy the pub’s everyday menu throughout the event, complemented by Lucky’s exclusive pop-up specials. As they say at Lucky’s, “May your troubles be less, and your blessings be more” as you step through their door for this festive transformation.
Learn more about this event here.
Buy Irish Imports at Ballyea
Downtown Michigan City is home to Ballyea Jewelry Designs, a specialty boutique showcasing exquisite Celtic-inspired jewelry that celebrates Irish heritage and craftsmanship. Founded by Bernadette Moore Gibson in 1991, this Chicago-based jeweler has established a reputation for creating unique, hand-carved pieces that connect wearers to their Irish roots. Visitors to the store can explore a stunning collection of custom jewelry, from engagement and wedding rings to family pendants and religious symbols, all meticulously crafted in sterling silver, 14-karat white or yellow gold, or platinum. They also have a wonderful range of imported products made in Ireland – including Arran Island sweaters! The store adds another layer of authentic Irish culture to Michigan City’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, allowing visitors to take home a lasting piece of Celtic tradition.
Visit Ballyea’s Website to learn more.
These events not only honor Irish traditions but also strengthen our community bonds, bringing together families, businesses, and organizations for shared experiences that showcase the vibrant spirit of Michigan City.
For the most up-to-date information on these events and to discover even more happenings throughout Michigan City, check out the new JOYRide Insider’s Guide to Michigan City Events calendar. This comprehensive resource keeps residents and visitors informed about all the exciting activities our city offers year-round, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to experience the best of Michigan City.
So, don your greenest attire, gather your friends and family, and join the festivities as Michigan City celebrates the luck of the Irish in style. Sláinte!
