Every March 17th, Oregon City, OR, like many other communities across the United States, comes alive with the vibrant spirit of St. Patrick’s Day. Locals and visitors alike don their best green attire, raise a pint (or two), and celebrate Irish culture with parades, music, and festivities that bring people together.

But why do we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and how does this holiday resonate so profoundly with Americans? Beyond the shamrocks and leprechauns lies a rich history of Irish heritage and resilience that has shaped this beloved holiday into what it is today.

The History of St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day originated as a religious feast day in Ireland to honor St. Patrick, the patron saint credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland during the 5th century. However, Irish immigrants in America transformed it into the festive celebration we know today.

The first recorded St. Patrick’s Day parade occurred in Boston in 1737. Over time, as Irish immigrants faced discrimination, they used the holiday to celebrate their culture and assert their identity in their new homeland. Today, it’s a day for everyone—Irish or not—to embrace Irish traditions through parades, music, food, and community gatherings.

Neighborhood Festivities Near Oregon City

While Oregon City itself offers a cozy community vibe perfect for family-friendly celebrations, nearby cities host more significant events that are just a short drive away:

• Murrayhill Taphouse St. Patrick’s Day Party

  • Date: Sunday, March 16th, 2025

  • Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

  • Address: 14550 Southwest Murray Scholls Drive, Beaverton

This event offers a lively atmosphere and Irish-themed drinks and food—an excellent option for a festive yet relaxed evening.

• Portland St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl All Access

  • Date: Friday, March 14th – Monday, March 17th, 2025

  • Time: Starts at 5:00 PM on March 14th

  • Address: McMenamins Blue Moon Tavern & Grill, 432 Northwest 21st Avenue, Portland

This multi-day bar crawl is perfect for those exploring Portland’s vibrant nightlife while celebrating Irish culture.

• Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl

  • Date: Saturday, March 15th, 2025

  • Time: 4:00 PM – Midnight

  • Address: The Dehn Bar, 157 Commercial Street Southeast, Salem

This event combines fun with tradition as participants enjoy themed drinks and camaraderie. All these locations are within an hour’s drive from Oregon City, making them accessible options for locals looking to expand their celebrations.

Eco-Friendly Celebrations

As we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, think green—literally! In Oregon City, sustainability is a core value for many residents. Consider organizing or participating in a green-themed community cleanup. Gather friends and neighbors to clean up local parks or neighborhoods while wearing festive green attire to honor the holiday spirit.

Another idea is hosting eco-conscious gatherings using biodegradable decorations or serving locally sourced food and drink options. These small steps can make a significant impact while embracing the season’s joy.

How Locals Celebrate

In Oregon City, residents have their unique ways of marking St. Patrick’s Day:

• Families often host small gatherings featuring traditional Irish dishes like corned beef, cabbage, or shepherd pie.

• Local pubs create special menus with Irish-inspired drinks like Guinness stout or Irish whiskey cocktails.

• Schools and community centers may host craft workshops where kids can make shamrock-themed art or learn about Irish folklore.

One resident shared how her family makes it a tradition to bake soda bread together every year while listening to classic Irish folk songs—a simple yet meaningful way to connect with heritage.

Why Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Oregon City?

What makes celebrating this holiday special in Oregon City is its sense of community combined with easy access to more significant events nearby. Whether you prefer quiet family traditions or lively pub crawls in Portland or Salem, there’s something for everyone.

As we approach this year’s St. Patrick’s Day, let us remember its roots as both a celebration of Irish heritage and a testament to resilience and unity. Whether you’re enjoying local festivities in Oregon City or venturing out to nearby events like the Murrayhill Taphouse party or Portland bar crawl, there are countless ways to embrace the holiday spirit.

So grab your green gear and join the fun—because everyone is a little bit Irish on March 17th (and the days leading up to it)!

Sources: allevents.in (St. Patrick’s Day Party), allevents.in (Portland St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl All Access), allevents.in ( Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl), en.wikipedia.org, npg.si.edu, timeanddate.com
Header Image Source: allevents.in