Emerald Isle St. Patrick's Day Festival
Get ready to celebrate the luck of the Irish at the annual Emerald Isle St. Patrick's Day Festival, one of the Crystal Coast's most anticipated events. This family-friendly festival is a vibrant celebration of Irish culture, featuring a weekend of live music, delicious food, and exciting activities for all ages. So, don your best green attire and join us for a memorable spring weekend on Emerald Isle.
Why Celebrate St. Patrick's Day on the NC Coast
There's something magical about celebrating St. Patrick's Day by the sea, and the Crystal Coast provides the perfect backdrop for this festive occasion. The connection between Emerald Isle and the Emerald Isle of Ireland makes this celebration feel especially fitting. Beyond the clever namesake, the Crystal Coast offers a unique blend of coastal charm and community spirit that transforms this festival into more than just an event. The mild spring weather, the scenic waterfront setting, and the welcoming atmosphere of this beach town create an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, celebrating St. Patrick's Day on the Crystal Coast allows you to enjoy Irish traditions with a coastal twist, combining the best of both worlds in one spectacular weekend.
A Two-Day Celebration
The festivities kick off on Friday, March 13, with an evening of thrilling amusement rides. From 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., you can enjoy all the rides with the purchase of an armband. Please note that food and drink vendors will not be available on Friday.
The main event takes place on Saturday, March 14, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Emerald Plantation Shopping Center. The day is packed with a wide array of attractions, including:
- Live Music: Enjoy a mix of traditional Irish tunes and local favorites on the main stage.
- Arts and Crafts: Browse the creations of over 75 talented artists and craft vendors, offering a wide selection of unique, handcrafted treasures.
- Food and Drinks: Indulge in a variety of delicious festival food, from funnel cakes and hamburgers to BBQ and more. For those of age, a beer tent will be available to raise a glass in true Irish fashion.
- Amusement Rides: The fun continues with a full day of amusement rides for kids and the young at heart.
Festival Schedule
Friday, March 13: Amusement Ride Armband Night (3 p.m. - 8 p.m.)
Saturday, March 14:
- Amusement Rides: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
- Food Vendors, Arts & Crafts, Beer Garden, and Live Entertainment: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Festival Information
Admission and parking for the Emerald Isle St. Patrick's Day Festival are free. The festival is located at the Emerald Plantation Shopping Center. For more information, please contact Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation or visit their website at www.emeraldisle-nc.org.
Start Planning Your NC Coast St. Patrick's Day Getaway
This March, trade the ordinary for the extraordinary and experience St. Patrick's Day in a whole new way on the Crystal Coast. The Emerald Isle St. Patrick's Day Festival is the perfect reason to plan a spring getaway to our beautiful coastal community. Extend your weekend and explore everything the Crystal Coast has to offer, from beaches and fresh seafood to charming downtown shops and stunning natural areas. With free admission to the festival, you can spend your vacation budget on a cozy beachfront rental, delicious coastal dining, and creating memories that will last long after the shamrocks have faded. Book your accommodations early, pack your greenest outfit, and get ready to discover why celebrating St. Patrick's Day on the Crystal Coast is an experience you'll want to repeat year after year.
