March is here, and with it comes the most spirited holiday of the year—St. Patrick’s Day! Whether you’re a fan of parades, a connoisseur of Irish cocktails, or just someone who loves an excuse to wear green, Madison and Huntsville, Alabama, have you covered. Here’s your guide to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day 2025 with style, fun, and maybe a little bit of Irish luck.
Huntsville: Where the Green Party Never Stops
The 48th Annual Ellen McAnelly Memorial St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Kick off your St. Patrick’s weekend with a beloved Huntsville tradition! On Saturday, March 15, at 11:00 AM, downtown Huntsville will transform into a sea of green for the 48th Annual Ellen McAnelly Memorial St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This isn’t just any parade—it has bagpipers, dancers, and over 90 groups ready to march into your hearts. Don your greenest gear and get ready to cheer as floats roll by in celebration of Irish culture and heritage.
Almost St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl
Why wait until the 17th to start the festivities? On Saturday at 4:30 PM, join the Almost St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl starting at The Poppy and Parliament. It’s a chance to tour some of Huntsville’s best bars while enjoying drink specials and themed activities. Bonus points if you win the Best Dressed Contest—so go all out with your green attire!
St. Patrick’s Weekend at The Camp
From March 14 to 16, The Camp in MidCity District is throwing a weekend-long bash that promises something for everyone. Think live music, food trucks serving Irish-inspired dishes, craft beer galore, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re bringing the kids or just looking for a laid-back vibe with friends, this is the spot.
Straight to Ale: Kegs & Eggs + After-Party
Saturday morning calls for “Kegs & Eggs” at Straight to Ale from 9:00 to 11:00 AM—because who says you can’t start your day with breakfast and beer? Stick around for Irish dancers, bagpipers, food specials, and live music throughout the day. After the downtown parade wraps up, head back here for the official after-party from 2:00 PM until midnight.
Luck & Libations Leprechaun Tour
On Friday evening (March 14), take part in a guided tour through downtown Huntsville’s best bars and restaurants during the Luck & Libations Leprechaun Tour. With curated drink specials and a dose of Irish folklore along the way, this event is equal parts educational and entertaining.
Madison: A Sip of Irish Spirit
St. Patrick’s Day Saintly Sips at Applebee’s
Madison may be smaller than its neighbor Huntsville, but it knows how to bring big flavor! Head over to Applebee’s on March 17 for their Saintly Sips cocktail specials. For just $6 each, you can try their Tipsy Leprechaun (Jameson Irish Whiskey meets lemon-lime soda) or the Golden Goose (a mango-and-lemon concoction featuring Grey Goose Vodka). If cocktails aren’t your thing, they’ve got non-alcoholic Rainbow Lemonades topped with candy rainbows for all ages.
More Huntsville Highlights
Cocktails at The View
For those looking for a more upscale celebration, Burritt on the Mountain is hosting “St. Patrick’s Day Cocktails at The View” on Sunday, March 16. Sip specialty Irish cocktails while soaking in panoramic views of Huntsville—perfect for those who prefer their shamrocks shaken rather than stirred.
Sidewalk Sale Meets Parade Fun
Combine shopping with celebration during the St. Patrick’s Day Sidewalk Sale on Clinton Row from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM on parade day (March 15). Local vendors will line the streets offering unique goods while you enjoy prime views of the parade.
Electric Belle’s Sham-Rockin’ Party
On Monday night (March 17), wrap up your St. Patrick’s festivities at The Electric Belle from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. With live music by .45 Surprise and drink specials flowing all night long, this free event guarantees a good time without breaking the bank.
Eat (and Drink) Like You’re Irish
Huntsville’s restaurants are rolling out special menus just for St. Patrick’s Day:
- BeeZr: Front-row parade views paired with Green Mimosas and Irish Coffee.
- Sea Salt: Guinness on tap plus hearty dishes like Corned Beef & Cabbage.
- Yellowhammer Brewing: Green beer and live music post-parade.
- La Esquina Cocina: Creative cocktails like St. Patty’s Margaritas and Green Martinis.
Final Tips for Maximum Fun
- Wear green—or risk getting pinched!
- Plan ahead if you’re joining pub crawls or tours; tickets often sell out.
- Bring cash for local vendors during sidewalk sales.
- Pace yourself—there are plenty of events all weekend long!
Whether you’re marching in parades or sipping cocktails on a mountaintop patio, Madison and Huntsville are pulling out all the stops this St. Patrick’s Day season. So grab your friends (and maybe some shamrock-shaped sunglasses) and let the good times roll!
Sources: foresthomesstore.com, thepioneerwoman.com, amandahoward.com, local.aarp.org
Header Image Source: Autumn Martin on Unsplash
