7 Irish hotspots in Toronto to hit up on St. Patrick’s Day

It’s that time of year when people flock to their local Irish pub, donning the customary “wearing of the green,” along with shamrock headbands and “Kiss Me I’m Irish” t-shirts.

Yes, that’s right, the historic and cultural celebration of St. Patrick’s Day is here – and fortuitously landing on a Friday!

Now that’s what we call the luck of the Irish.

See also

• Canada's largest St. Paddy's Day party is taking over Toronto's waterfront this year
• Where to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Toronto 2017
• The St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns to Toronto this Sunday

If you’re looking for the best locations to visit on St. Patrick’s Day, Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with over a million incredible places to stay, has selected the top 7 Irish hotspots in Toronto.

So put on your green garb and head on down to one of these events to raise a pint. Because let’s be real, everyone is a self-proclaimed Irishman on St. Paddy’s Day.

Sláinte!

Guinness SPD, Toronto Waterfront

Make your way to Guinness SPD where you’ll witness Toronto’s waterfront transform into the city’s largest St. Paddy’s Day party. The event includes live performances by renowned Irish fiddler, Lennan Delaney, CP24’s Jamie Gutfreund’s band, In Living Cover and some traditional Irish dancing –  providing audiences with a truly authentic experience. You can also take part in interactive activities and Irish-themed face painting.

Where to stay: The Westin Harbour Castle may not look like a castle, but offers topline services and amenities that will make you feel like royalty. Not to mention, it’s a short walk to the waterfront!

St. Patrick’s Day at Amsterdam BrewHouse

Want to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day by adding some history with your beverage of choice? Visit the lake-side Amsterdam BrewHouse – Ontario’s original craft brewery –  where you can indulge in some Irish-inspired fun. The party includes a live performance by St. Royal Entertainment, video DJ battles, an Irish fiddler and best part: free pancake breakfast. Top of the morning to you!

Where to stay: After a full-day of St. Paddy’s Day shenanigans at Amsterdam BrewHouse, find comfort at the Radisson Admiral Toronto Harbourfront right next door.

St. Paddy’s Day-Long Extravaganza, the Gladstone

Green beers all around at the Gladstone this St. Paddy’s Day! Sponsored by Woodhouse Brewing Co., the St. Paddy’s Day-Long Extravaganza will provide deals on their finest brews as well as free samples. Live entertainment starts at 3 p.m. and the Gladstone will open their Ballroom space for the legendary Good Enough Live Karaoke at 10 p.m.  But the best part is no cover charge!

Where to stay: Gladstone Hotel –  what’s more convenient than staying at the hotel you’re partying in? Not to mention, the trendy and lively hotel is located in the heart of the city’s social and cultural bubble.

Rhythm of the Dance, Sony Centre for the Performing Arts

This St. Patrick’s Day, celebrate Ireland’s rich history and culture with the National Dance Company of Ireland. Taking place at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts, the event highlights the magic of Irish heritage with music and dance. The show also features the Young Irish Tenors, as well as a vibrant group of musicians performing traditional Irish songs – all against the computer-generated backdrop of Ireland’s beautiful, natural landscape.

Where to stay: End off your magical night by staying at Fairmont Royal York Hotel, a historic and dazzling hotel that is only a six-minute walk to the Sony Centre.

Leprechaun Movie Drinking Game, Steady Café & Bar

If you find yourself looking for something engaging and fun to do on St. Paddy’s Day, make your way to the hipster Steady Café & Bar to participate in their St. Patrick’s Day-themed interactive drinking game. Presented by Drunken Cinema, the event will screen the 1993 cult-slasher, Leprechaun, and then the games begin! Who wouldn’t love to get a buzz on watching Warwick Davis as a leprechaun featuring a young Jennifer Aniston?

Where to stay: The charming Rose Garden Bed and Breakfast is located in the trendy Annex, near the bustling Little Italy and Korea Town. You won’t get a more authentic experience of Toronto’s west-end!

Shamrocks & Shenanigans, TKTO

Not interested in partaking in the customary alcohol-related St. Patrick’s Day activities? Not to worry, TKTO is hosting the Shamrocks & Shenanigans event at Toronto’s original knife throwing range. They will provide samples of Muskoka Brewery’s top selling beers to ensure you have a “whale of a time.” But by samples, they mean samples – don’t forget you’ll be throwing dangerously sharp objects in the air. The evening also includes full instruction, use of the range, a mini-tournament and much more!

Where to stay: If you’re looking for accommodation not directly in the city but close by, Great Gerrard 1- Mona Lisa Suite is the perfect location.  A 24-hour Toronto streetcar stops directly in front of the property, offering you easy access to the city core. And after a long day, you can indulge in some R&R at the private rooftop deck.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Toronto

Looking for a kid-friendly St. Patrick’s Day event? On March 19, grab the family and head to Canada’s largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Toronto. You and your family will enjoy Irish-inspired floats, over 20 marching bands and Irish dancers all in celebration of Ireland’s patron saint. The festival starts at Bloor and St. George Street and ends at Nathan Phillips Square.

Note: Spectators are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to donate for the Daily Bread Food Bank.

Where to stay: If you’re thinking of travelling with your family to watch the parade, make sure to stay at the luxurious One King West Hotel and Residence. All children under 17 years stay free of charge when using existing beds!