The Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade was started back in 1858, making it one of Atlanta’s longest running events — over a hundred years! It’s a family-friendly outing that has been planned to appeal to children.
The parade usually includes clowns, decorated floats, marching bands, bagpipers, Irish dancers, baton throwers, and more. All groups are encouraged to participate as long as their unit is appropriate for a family event. According to the website, the emphasis is on children and families in celebration of all of Atlanta’s diverse backgrounds on a day when “everybody is Irish.”
Parade route
The parade begins at noon, near the intersection of Peachtree and 15th street (by the Woodruff Arts Center).
It continues south on Peachtree St, ending near 5th Street.
Organizers recommend arriving by 11 a.m. to get a good spot along the parade route.
You’ll find a PDF map of the parade route online.
Getting there
Please consider using MARTA!
If you get off the train at Arts Center Station, you can simply cut through the Woodruff Arts Center campus to get to Peachtree Street, and you’ll be near the starting spot (you can walk a ways down Peachtree to find a spot you like).
You could also exit the MARTA train at Midtown Station — which puts you near Peachtree and 10th Streets.
If you’re going to drive, be aware of street closures.
The parade web site is an excellent source of information that should help you plan your day.
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