San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day Parade
On Saturday, March 15, the streets of San Francisco will burst into a sea of green as the city hosts its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a tradition that goes back over 150 years. Organized by the United Irish Societies of San Francisco, this event has long been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural calendar, celebrating Irish heritage with a distinctly Bay Area flair. In 2025, the parade takes on the theme: “The Immigrant’s Story,” honoring the histories, cultures & contributions of immigrants who have shaped San Francisco and beyond.
The San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day Parade traces its roots to the mid-19th century, when Irish immigrants arrived in droves during the Gold Rush era. These newcomers helped build the city (literally and figuratively) laying down roots as laborers, merchants & civic leaders. The San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day parade, which began as a modest procession, has since grown into one of the West Coast’s largest celebrations of Irish culture, drawing thousands of spectators each year.
The 2025 San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day Parade Details
This year’s parade promises to be a tribute to the immigrant experience, spotlighting not just the Irish but all those who have crossed borders to call San Francisco home. Leading the procession as Grand Marshal is Mark Gorman, a local figure celebrated for his community leadership. Honorees Jerry Cassidy, Marie Gavney, and Sr. Edith Hurley, RSM, will also be recognized for their contributions to the city.
The theme, “The Immigrant’s Story,” will come alive through a colorful array of floats, live music, and performances. Expect traditional Irish dancers alongside cultural groups representing the global communities that have enriched San Francisco. A special nod will go to the Irish immigrants who shaped the city’s early days, with visual art and performances weaving their tale into the broader immigrant narrative.
When
Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 11:30AM
Where
The parade kicks off at 2nd and Market Streets, winding its way to City Hall near the Civic Center.
Route
Line up along Market Street for the best views. Arrive early to get a good spot.
Duration
The procession typically lasts about two hours, wrapping up by early afternoon.
Note: Unlike past years, there will be no post-parade festival at Civic Center Plaza in 2025.
This family-friendly event is free and open to all (no tickets required). Whether you’re Irish by blood or just for the day, throw on some green, grab an Irish flag & join the crowd for St. Patrick’s Day in San Francisco. Public transit is your best bet to get to the parade (traffic will be bad that day). BART and Muni lines drop you steps from Market Street, though expect delays as the parade reroutes traffic.
