Top Spots for St. Patrick's Day in Montana
Big Sky Country is surprisingly green—and it’s not just the foliage. At the turn of the 20th century, Butte boasted a higher percentage of an Irish population than any city in America. These concentrations of Irish communities sculpted neighborhoods into genuine homes away from home. So, where to go on St. Patty’s Day? Definitely a pub, absolutely parade, and without question a Celtic fair. Below are the top spots in Montana to enjoy Guinness, Gaelic, and green-tinted libations.
Butte St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Being the mecca of Irish-dom in Montana, the parade in Butte is a requisite notch in one’s holiday green belt. Starting in “uptown,” events commence around midday, passing through downtown before culminating in a street festival of live music, food and dancing amidst a sea of green. The festivities attract over 30,000 thirsty fun-seekers from around the world.Â
Brannigan’s Irish Pub, Kalispell, MT
This pub is an ideal representation of the American-Irish pub. It’s a very fun, polished place for the holiday. The beautiful, historical-downtown brick building encloses the bronze bar poles, dark woods and green felt of an Irish pub. A great food menu of authentic pub classics and modern embellishments absorb just enough alcohol to ensure a long and enjoyable St Patty’s.
Run to the Pub, Bozeman, MT
On St. Paddy’s Day, many drink, a few exercise, even fewer do both. For those with a runner’s spirit, Bozeman hosts a 10K or half marathon, ending with beers and a post-race Irish celebration. Even if lengthy periods of exercise aren’t you’re thing, don’t fear. The run is approachable for beginners as it’s mostly downhill, racers are fun and casual, and registration includes a technical race shirt, a unique finishing medal/bottle opener, a Run to the Pub pint glass, a RttP themed buff, one free beer (for those of age), and a great after-party. Proceeds go to a local nonprofit.
The Badlander, Missoula, MT
This is a great live entertainment venue—for music especially. The historic brick building and low light/dark wood aesthetic exudes an excitingly-volatile combo of laid back and lively. The stage, DJ booth, decent sound system and large dance space guarantee raucous good times. And every St. Patty’s Day, a live band rocks the house, a soundtrack to drink specials and special drinks.
Beartooth Lodge #534, Red Lodge, MT
Perhaps one is seeking a much mellower but similarly authentic St. Patrick’s Day. March to the chapter of the local Elks Club, which hosts an annual Irish celebration. The evening begins with a small parade through downtown Red Lodge, ending at the Lodge for dinner, drinks and entertainment. There’s live music (including bagpipes), green beer and the ubiquitous—and necessary!—corned beef & cabbage.
Hooligan’s Sports Bar, Billings, MT
Obviously, Hooligan’s is the spot for football season—it has every sports channel imaginable and the boasts the largest big screen in the state. But it’s also a great spot for St. Patty’s day food and drink. A traditional-ish pub sign bearing two lions hangs over the door, beckoning towards the long, sleek bar that stylizes the space. Though more polished than an authentic pub, the corned beef, food specials and plethora of TVs make Hooligan’s a really fun holiday spot.
Saint Patrick's Day Parade, Street Party and Celtic Fair, Billings, MT
This decades-old Irish tradition is a real sight with large floats and a kaleidoscope of traditional music and dance parade down the main drag. The street fills with food vendors and entertainment smells and tunes of Emerald Isle nostalgia and the spectacle keeps young and old entertained throughout the early afternoon. Once full on local treats and not-so-local brews, walk the town and happen-upon another St. Paddy's celebration.
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