North Myrtle Beach Turns Green for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
Every spring, North Myrtle Beach wakes up to the sound of bagpipes, laughter, and the unmistakable color green spreading across Main Street. Chairs line the sidewalks early in the morning, families gather with blankets and coffee, and golf carts roll into place as the city prepares for one of its most beloved traditions.
The North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival is the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration on the Grand Strand. With more than 100 parade entries and a long history spanning over three decades, this festive day brings thousands of visitors together to celebrate Irish heritage, community spirit, and the simple joy of being by the beach.
If you’re planning to explore local events during your stay, our North Myrtle Beach Concierge Guide highlights festivals, attractions, and things to do throughout the year.
A Sea of Green: The Famous North Myrtle Beach Parade
The celebration begins bright and early on Saturday, March 14, when Main Street transforms into a festive parade route filled with decorated floats, marching groups, performers, and community organizations.
The parade officially begins at 9:00 AM, but seasoned attendees know the best viewing spots fill quickly. Locals begin setting up chairs and blankets by 8:30 AM to secure the perfect vantage point.
This two-hour spectacle is televised live and draws spectators from across the Grand Strand who come to experience the colorful floats, music, costumes, and Irish-themed fun.
Parade Route and Viewing Tips
The parade begins on Ocean Boulevard at 2nd Avenue North and travels south toward 1st Avenue South. From there, it winds through the heart of North Myrtle Beach:
- Ocean Boulevard
- 1st Avenue South
- Hillside Drive
- Main Street
- Ending at Ye Olde Kings Highway
One of the most exciting viewing locations is the Horseshoe on Main Street, where judges evaluate the parade entries and an emcee announces the participants. This area is also one of the most energetic sections of the route.
Local television personalities from WPDE will broadcast the parade live from the Community Stage for those who cannot attend in person.
The Street Festival on Main Street
Once the parade concludes, the celebration continues with the 36th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Main Street becomes a lively street festival with more than 120 craft vendors, dozens of food vendors, and three stages of live entertainment.
Visitors can expect:
- Irish pipe bands and dancers
- Handmade crafts from regional artisans
- Irish-inspired foods and festival favorites
- Street performers and roaming leprechauns
- A children’s area with rides and games
The atmosphere is festive, family-friendly, and unmistakably North Myrtle Beach.
Fun Contests and Family Activities
One of the most entertaining traditions of the festival is the lineup of friendly competitions that invite visitors to join the fun.
The Leprechaun Contest and Jr. Leprechaun Contest reward the most creative and spirited Irish outfits. Judges evaluate participants based on originality, enthusiasm, and overall appearance.
For those with a competitive appetite, the Shepherd’s Pie Eating Contest challenges participants to clear their plates without using their hands. The winner earns bragging rights and a plaque.
Both contests take place at the Irish Stage at 1:30 PM.
Live Entertainment All Day
The festival features three stages of live music and performances throughout the day.
Irish Stage
- 11:00 – 12:00 | Brendan O’Connor
- 12:00 | Coastal Carolina Shield Pipes and Drums
- 12:30 – 1:15 | Brendan O’Connor
- 1:30 | Leprechaun & Shepherd’s Pie Contests
- 2:00 – 4:00 | The Muckers
Community Stage
- 9:00 – 11:00 | Parade Broadcast – WPDE
- 11:00 – 11:45 | Triple Toe Cloggers
- 12:00 – 1:30 | Radio Revolver
- 1:30 | Coastal Carolina Shields Pipes and Drums
- 2:00 – 4:00 | Bailey Road Band
Ocean Stage
- 11:00 – 1:00 | Painted Man
- 1:00 – 2:00 | Drake Irish Dance Group
- 2:00 – 4:00 | The Mighty Kicks
Parking and Shuttle Information
Several parking locations are available throughout the event area.
- 2nd Avenue North and Ocean Boulevard
- 1st Avenue South and Ocean Boulevard
- McLean Park – 93 Oak Drive
A free shuttle service runs from 8 AM to 5 PM from Ocean Drive Elementary School, making it easy to travel to the festival area without worrying about traffic.
Make It a North Myrtle Beach Getaway
Events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade are one of the reasons visitors fall in love with North Myrtle Beach. The city blends small-town charm with coastal beauty, creating a welcoming atmosphere for festivals, concerts, and community celebrations.
If you’re planning a spring getaway, explore our North Myrtle Beach Concierge Guide to discover more events, restaurants, and attractions throughout the area.
And when you’re ready to plan your stay, Thomas Beach Vacations offers a wide selection of oceanfront properties.
Browse available rentals:
Vacation Starts Here – North Myrtle Beach.
Call (866) 249-2100 to plan your beach vacation with Thomas Beach Vacations.