With many Irish American residents, New Hampshire knows how to do St. Patrick’s Day right. Here are six ways to celebrate across the state.
As the home of towns like Conway, Londonderry, and even Dublin, it shouldn’t come as much of a shock that New Hampshire is home to many proud Irish Americans. But did you know that the Granite State has the highest proportion of Irish Americans in the country?
It’s true, and the fact that one in five New Hampshirites has Irish heritage makes for some especially fun times on March 17 each year. While Boston’s parade and the bright green color in the Chicago River make headlines around the country, in New Hampshire, people know that their state is one of the best spots in America for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
But what if you’re not Irish American yourself? That’s okay! There are still plenty of ways to get in on the festivities (although be sure to wear some green to avoid a sneaky pinch). Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day in New Hampshire:
Listen to an Irish tune
Ireland is famous around the world for its beautiful musical tradition, and that tradition is alive and well in New Hampshire, especially on St. Patrick’s Day. The Session, a website dedicated to connecting fans of traditional Irish music, lists a variety of Granite State hangouts where you can regularly find a “session” (hence the name) of Irish music. Some spots worth mentioning are The Barley House in Dover, which offers Irish music every Tuesday, and Salt hill Pub, which has locations in Lebanon, Newport, and Newbury, all of which offer food, drink, and live music for a proper Irish-American experience.
If you can’t get enough of New Hampshire’s Irish music scene, you can also experience it well after St. Patrick’s Day is over, including at the annual New Hampshire Irish Festival, which hasn’t announced its 2026 date yet, but most recently brought the sounds of Ireland to Manchester in August of 2025.
Raise a glass to Ireland
Fancy a pint of Guinness? Or perhaps a dram of proper Irish whiskey? There are Irish pubs across the state where you can enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day drink in good company.
Some of the best-known and best-loved spots to say “slainte” (the Irish equivalent of “cheers”) include the Shaskeen Pub, which was co-founded by a member of the renowned Irish folk band The Chieftains, and The Waterhorse, which offers live music, comedy, and good vibes to go with your beverage of choice.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something different when it comes to your St. Paddy’s drinking, you can go all-out thanks to Rek’-lis Brewing Company in Bethlehem. They’re hosting A Whiskey Affair at The Pint House – A St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on March 16, the day before St. Patrick’s Day itself. Guests at this limited, ticketed event will enjoy a four-course festive feast, complete with guided whiskey pairings for each course. Tickets are limited, though, so book fast!
Feast on traditional Irish cuisine
You’ll be wanting something to eat alongside your festive beverages, and there are plenty of spots across the state that will serve you up something delicious in keeping with St. Patrick’s Day tradition. Ireland is famous for its rich, hearty pub food, and New Hampshire restaurants are more than ready to bring their customers a taste.
For instance, May Kelly’s Cottage in North Conway offers traditional treats like shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and rich beef stew served in a cozy, traditional setting. Meanwhile, Patrick’s in Gilford serves up Irish-American fare with a twist, including unique items like the Drunken Leprechaun sandwich and the O’Crabby Patty. They will also offer more traditional dishes as part of their St. Patrick’s Day menu, which includes a dessert of chocolate Guinness cake. Or, for a fun, fantasy-inspired St. Patrick’s Day meal, check out Epping’s Holy Grail, where you can enjoy traditional snacks like Scotch eggs, or try a plate of potato skin-based “Irish nachos.”
Enjoy a themed staycation
Even if you can’t make it all the way to Ireland, you can still enjoy a little St. Patrick’s Day getaway, right here in New Hampshire. Specifically, the Ashworth By the Sea Hotel in Hampton Beach has a full roster of activities planned to bring the St. Patrick’s Day spirit. Overnight guests during St. Patrick’s Day weekend can take advantage of a “pre-game package” to help get them into the spirit with pints of Guinness and drink tickets for the on-site eateries, and enjoy oceanfront views, local activities, and more.
Even if you’re not staying the night, though, feel free to drop in for a special St. Patrick’s Day pub quiz. Test your knowledge of all things St. Paddy’s over a drink or snack, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. You can also buy an advance ticket for the “LeprePong” beer pong tournament, where players of all skill levels are more than welcome.
Get the family involved
While raising a toast in a pub may be decidedly for adults, there are a whole host of ways for New Hampshire’s youngest residents to enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day fun.
The Park Theatre in Jaffrey is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day parade, along with a handful of other exciting events, as part of its annual Shamrock Fest. Murphy’s Taproom in Bedford is hosting a family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day event with food, music, and a chance for kids to show off their dance moves. You can also bring the fun to your house by whipping up green foods or making your own “leprechaun traps”!
Take home a piece of the Emerald Isle
Want to enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day vibes all year round? Well, how about picking up a little bit of Irish tradition to take home for yourself?
At New Hampshire’s Irish specialty stores, you can find just the right thing. One of the best stops for all things Irish is Celtic Crossing in Portsmouth, where you can find everything from traditional silver claddagh rings to imported Irish crystal.
On the other hand, if you want a little old-Ireland-meets-New-England flair, check out the Wicked Irish Clothing Company at their shop in Salem. With a blend of Irish pride and New England slang (if you know, you know), they can set you up with fun, comfy sportswear that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, or just to wear year-round! They also stock accessories, scented candles, and even something for your four-legged family members with their doggie line.
However you choose to celebrate, there’s nothing quite like St. Patrick’s Day in the Granite State. Enjoy, and “may the luck of the Irish be with you!”
