In celebration of Celtic culture and St. Patrick’s Day, CelticFest returns to Vancouver on March 10-17. Well known for their free, family-friendly events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the Celtic Village, they have no plans to disappoint this year.

The 12th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one CelticFest’s most anticipated events for both adults and children alike. The floats will be livening up downtown Vancouver on Sunday March 13 starting at 11 a.m., with thousands of parade participants including marching pipe and drum bands, Celtic music groups, acrobats, drill teams, Irish and Scottish youth dance groups, and many others.

The parade itself regularly draws thousands of spectators from across all backgrounds and cultures to share in this special event honouring Ireland’s patron saint.

That same weekend on March 12 and 13, the Celtic Village will return to Granville Street between Robson and Davie to celebrate Celtic culture with music, dance, food, shopping, and family fun. Some of the live musical performers set to perform on Doolin’s Music Stage (Granville and Robson) include Blackthorn, the Pat Chessell Band, Sarah Ann Chisholm, The Clanns, Elsay, Mairi Rankin, and the West Coast Fiddlers.

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There will also be a public street market with talented artisans selling Celtic treasures and handicrafts, street performers, a historical swordplay showcase by Academie Duello, and a wide selection of food vendors.

Check out the details for both events below and prepare to soak up some Celtic spirit.

12th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Where: Starting from Howe and Davie St. and ending at Georgia and Granville St.

When: Sunday, March 13, 2016

Time: 11 a.m. start

Cost: Free to attend

Celtic Village

Where: Granville St. between Robson and Nelson St.

When: Saturday and Sunday, March 12 and 13, 2016

Time: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday

Cost: Free to attend

Vancity Buzz is proud to be a media partner of CelticFest Vancouver