Family-Friendly St. Patrick’s Day Events in San Diego

Don’t forget to wear something green on Sunday for Saint Patrick’s Day!

Saint Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious holiday that tributes a bishop, Patrick, who helped spread Christianity throughout Ireland in the 5th century A.D. After Patrick died, he was named the patron saint of Ireland and became one of the world’s most well-known saints.

Fast forward more than 1,000 years, the anniversary of Patrick’s death was made an official feast holiday, observed by the Catholic Church, among other churches. When Irish immigrants began moving to the United States, the holiday transformed into a more grandiose celebration that honors Irish heritage and culture. Since approximately 12 percent of Americans have Irish ancestry, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated triumphantly throughout the U.S. each year.

Whether you have Irish ancestry or not, there are some fun San Diego St. Patrick’s Day events that your family may want to be a part of!

Here are some family-friendly activities so you can join in on the fun:

1. San Diego St. Patrick’s Day Parade

When: 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2019
Where: Fifth Avenue and Laurel Street in Bankers Hill
Cost: Free
The largest parade west of the Mississippi River can’t disappoint, right? The whole family will enjoy watching floats, antique cars and even Irish setter dogs walk past. More than 100 groups of people are expected to march, including representatives from Ireland, high school marching bands, dance groups, equestrians and clowns.

2. Irish Festival

When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on March 16 2019
Where: Sixth Avenue and Maple Street in Balboa Park
Cost: Free
Prior to or following the parade, head over to the nearby Irish Festival at Balboa Park! You will find live music and performances on three different stages, craft booths, Celtic food (as well as other types of food), a kids’ zone and a beer garden. A lucky four-leaf clover won’t be needed to ensure this festival is fun-filled.

3. St. Patrick’s Day 10K / 2 & 4 Mile Run/Walk

When: 7:45 a.m. on March 16, 2019
Where: Mission Bay Park
Cost: $20 for kids 12 and under, $40-$45 per adult
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a healthy family run or stroll along San Diego’s scenic Mission Bay. This event has a 10k run for experienced runners, as well as a two-mile and four-mile course on which you can walk or run. All race finishers receive a medal and will be treated to Domino’s pizza.

4.  4th annual Spring Fling—St Patrick’s Family Festival!

When: 1 p.m – 7 p.m. on March 16 & 17, 2019
Where: Welk Resorts, 8845 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido
Cost: $15 (child $12)
There is fun for the whole family at this St Patrick’s Day Festival, including roaming circus acts, a trapeze experience, pot-of-gold scavenger hunt, and Irish-themed food and music. Don’t forget the infinite obstacle course, carnival rides, and more.

If your family participates in any of the above-mentioned daytime activities, make sure you bring plenty of water and that everyone’s skin is protected with sunscreen. For more family-friendly events in San Diego, check out Scripps Affiliated Medical Groups’ articles.

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