New 2025: Vienna Ireland Week
Saint Patrick's Day: Vienna
St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated every year on March 17th, is one of the world’s most famous festivals. What started as an Irish tradition has grown into a global celebration, bringing people together to embrace Irish culture, music, and good times.
From Ireland to cities across the world, the day is marked with lively parades, parties, traditional dancing, and, of course, plenty of Irish drinks—including the iconic green beer. It’s also a time to enjoy delicious Irish food, all while soaking up the festive spirit that makes this holiday so special.
Rooted in Irish heritage, St. Patrick’s Day has expanded far beyond its origins. Now celebrated in over 80 countries, it remains a major event in Ireland—an experience not to be missed for anyone who loves Irish culture.
In Vienna, you can get a true taste of the celebrations at Charlie P’s. With great food, great drinks, and an electric atmosphere, St. Patrick’s Day at Charlie P’s is an experience to remember—done the Charlie P’s way!
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Vienna will take place on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM, starting at Schottenstift, Freyung 6, and ending at the Burgtheater around 1:00 PM. Expect a lively celebration with traditional Irish music, dance performances, and plenty of green as the parade winds through the heart of Vienna. Whether you're Irish or just love the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, join the festivities and experience a taste of Ireland in Austria! ☘️🎶
Food Specials
Along with our signature Irish specialties like Irish Beef Burgers and Steaks, we also serve weekly favorites such as hearty Irish Stew and rich Beef & Guinness Pie.
Our Fish and Chips are always a crowd-pleaser—pair them with a pint of stout, and you’ve got the perfect taste of Ireland right here!
So yes, it’s Irish culinary delights all the way!
P.S. For the perfect nightcap, a glass of Blacks "Triple Threat" Irish Whiskey is just the thing! Sláinte!
So, who was Saint Patrick?
The truth is, there’s no straight answer to this one—it all depends on who you ask! 😆
Believe it or not, St. Patrick wasn’t even Irish. He was actually from Wales. According to legend, he was kidnapped as a teenager and brought to Ireland as a slave. Not exactly love at first sight.
But after escaping back to Britain, he trained as a priest and—surprisingly—chose to return to Ireland. This time, he had a mission: to spread Christianity to the pagan population. Oh, and he also supposedly banished all the snakes from Ireland. Which sounds impressive… except there were never any snakes in Ireland to begin with.
Still, he must have done something right because he became Ireland’s Patron Saint, and March 17th became the day we celebrate him. The exact year of his passing? Well, like a lot of his story, that part’s a bit fuzzy.
And there you have it—a 1,600-year-old tale, told as best as we can. But hey, we’re not historians! 🍀😄
St. Patrick's Day festivities: Bagpipers marching in a St. Patrick's Day parade, Boston. © Liviu Toader/Shutterstock.com
Where did the shamrock originate?
According to folklore, St. Patrick used the shamrock—a three-leafed clover—to explain the Christian Holy Trinity.
The word "shamrock" comes from the Irish word seamróg, meaning "little clover." Over time, it became a national symbol of Ireland, and wearing or displaying shamrocks on St. Patrick’s Day has since become a long-standing tradition.. Source
Fun Facts
St. Patrick’s Day was originally associated with the color blue.
Yep, you read that right—blue. These days, wearing green is practically a requirement (unless you enjoy getting pinched), but back in the day, St. Patrick was rocking a different look.
So, what changed? Well, Ireland’s nickname, "The Emerald Isle," probably had something to do with it, along with the green in the Irish flag and the shamrock, which St. Patrick supposedly used as a visual aid for explaining the Holy Trinity.
By the 17th century, people had already started wearing green ribbons and shamrocks—officially making blue the forgotten story of St. Patrick’s Day history.
Saint Patrick's Day Parades
Whenever someone thinks of St. Patrick’s Day—or Paddy’s Day, as it’s more commonly called—parades are usually the first thing that comes to mind.
Fun fact: the first-ever Paddy’s Day parade didn’t actually happen in Ireland. Nope, it was in the good old USA—Florida, to be exact, way back in 1601.
Who knew Florida was ahead of the game?
Today, the biggest St. Patrick’s Day parades take place in Dublin, Boston, New York, Sydney, and London. These aren’t just small marches; they’re massive, carnival-like celebrations.
For Irish communities, their descendants, and anyone who wants to be “Irish for a day,” these parades are a way to come together, embrace the culture, and soak up the festive spirit—preferably with a pint in hand.
Nowadays the biggest parades can be found in Dublin, Boston, New York, Sydney, London. These are mega events, carnivals really. Special occasions for Irish people,
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the largest in the world. It dates back to 1762, a full 14 years before the Declaration of Independence.
The first parade was organized by a group of homesick Irish expats and British Army soldiers stationed in the American colonies, looking to celebrate their heritage.
What started as a small gathering has grown into a massive annual tradition, attracting millions of spectators and participants every year.
St. Patrick's Celebrations in Vienna
In Vienna, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated with enthusiasm, featuring a parade that typically takes place on the Saturday closest to March 17th. This event offers a vibrant blend of Irish and Austrian traditions, creating a unique cultural experience.
The parade usually commences at Schottenkirche in the first district, with participants gathering around 11:00 AM. The procession then winds through the city center, passing notable landmarks such as Herrengasse, Michaelerplatz, and Ballhausplatz, before concluding near the Burgtheater. This route allows attendees to enjoy Vienna's historic sites while immersing themselves in the festive atmosphere.
A highlight of the parade is the participation of the Vienna Gaels GAA club, Austria's leading Gaelic games club. Members showcase traditional Irish sports, adding an authentic touch to the celebrations. Their presence underscores the strong Irish community in Vienna and their dedication to promoting Irish culture.
Adding to the festivities, the Shamrock Dance Company Vienna delivers captivating Irish dance performances. Established in 1999, this group has been instrumental in bringing traditional Irish dance to Austrian audiences. Their energetic routines are a crowd favorite, embodying the spirit of St. Patrick's Day.
The parade also features performances by the Vienna Pipes and Drums, a Scottish bagpipe band based in Vienna. Their stirring melodies add a distinctive Celtic flair to the event, enhancing the multicultural celebration.
Beyond the parade, Vienna's iconic landmarks, such as the Riesenrad (ferris wheel) and the Burgtheater, are often illuminated in green, symbolizing the global "greening" initiative that honors St. Patrick's Day. This visual spectacle provides a stunning backdrop to the day's events.
The 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Vienna will take place on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM, starting at Schottenstift, Freyung 6, and ending at the Burgtheater around 1:00 PM. Expect a lively celebration with traditional Irish music, dance performances, and plenty of green as the parade winds through the heart of Vienna. Whether you're Irish or just love the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, join the festivities and experience a taste of Ireland in Austria! ☘️
For those looking to extend the celebrations, numerous local establishments host St. Patrick's Day events. For instance, Charlie P's offers Irish food and drink specials, live music, and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Participating in Vienna's St. Patrick's Day festivities provides a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, blending Irish traditions with Austrian hospitality. Whether you're watching the parade, enjoying traditional music and dance, or simply soaking in the green-lit cityscape, it's an event that offers something for everyone.
St Patrick's Day Parade 2024 schedule.Thanks to the Vienna Irish Embassy.
More info from 100things Vienna Die coolsten Events rund um den St. Patrick's Day in Wien
Vienna St. Patrick's Day 2024 Recap:
On Saturday, March 16, 2024, Vienna was filled with Irish pride as the city hosted its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The day kicked off at 9:00 AM with a special recital by Karen Murray & Celtic Virtuoso inside Schottenkirche, setting the tone for the celebrations. This was followed by the traditional St. Patrick’s Day Mass at 10:00 AM.
At 11:00 AM, participants gathered outside Schottenkirche/Freyung, eagerly awaiting the start of the parade. By 11:30 AM, the procession was in full swing, making its way through the city. The parade route took revelers from Herrengasse to Michaelerplatz, then onto Schauflergasse, Ballhausplatz, and Löwelstraße, before culminating at Josef Meinrad-Platz near the Burgtheater.
he event was made possible thanks to the efforts of the Irish Embassy, the Austro-Irish Society, Shamrock Dance Company, and Vienna Gaels GAA. It brought together the Irish community in Austria, along with friends and supporters, for a joyful celebration of Irish culture and heritage.
As Vienna turned green for the day, the atmosphere was filled with music, dance, and camaraderie, making it a memorable occasion for all who attended. Stay tuned for updates on next year’s parade!
Saint Patrick's Day Celebrations at Charlie P's
Drinks
At Charlie P’s Irish Pub, St. Patrick’s Day (and the whole weekend) is all about great drinks, great food, and a lively atmosphere. Irish drinks take center stage, with a nice selection of whiskeys and gins to choose from.
And of course, there’s no shortage of Guinness—lots and lots of Guinness!
For those who like something a little different, Irish Coffees, Baileys Coffees, Hot Whiskeys, and special Irish cocktails are also on the menu, adding to the festive spirit.
Whether you're raising a pint or sipping something warm, there’s no better place to toast to St. Patrick’s Day!
Green Beer
And for that one time of the year, Green Beer makes its grand appearance! Thanks to the folks at Ottakringer Brewery, a special batch is brewed just for the occasion—and it absolutely flies out of the taps.
Everyone seems to go mad for it!
Of course, Guinness remains the undisputed champion of St. Patrick’s Day, but coming in strong at number three on the best-sellers list is 'Madra Rua' Irish Style Red Ale—Charlie P’s very own take on a classic Irish red.
Whether it's Guinness, Green Beer, or Madra Rua, there's no shortage of ways to raise a glass and join the celebrations!
Food
Along with our classic Irish favorites like Irish Beef Burgers and Steaks, we roll out some specials for the week, including hearty Irish Stew and a rich, comforting Beef & Guinness Pie.
And of course, no St. Patrick’s celebration would be complete without Fish & Chips—always a crowd favorite, especially when paired with a perfectly poured pint of stout.
It doesn’t get much more Irish than that!
And if you’re looking for the perfect nightcap, Green Spot Whiskey is just the thing to round off the night—smooth, rich, and exactly what you need after a day of celebrating. Sláinte!
Music on St. Patrick's Day at Charlie P's
Now all good parties need good music...and there’s plenty of that coming from Ireland!
During the day we like to get some traditional music on the go, you'll be hearing plenty of Christy Moore, Luke Kelly,Planxty, The Chieftains to name a few.
As the day goes on the DJs will mix things up with U2, The Cranberries, Thin Lizzy, The Pogues, Sinead O'Connor, Hozier...the list goes on!
And not strictly Irish, but always very popular for partying to on Paddy’s Day....Dropkick Murphy's and House of Pain!
Top song for the day...and likely to be heard more than once, Whiskey in the Jar! Our favourite version, the combo of The Pogues and the Dubliners.
Have to say though, Metallica's effort is pretty tasty too!!
Every year in Vienna, you can experience a taste of St. Patrick’s Day traditions right here at Charlie P’s—with great food, great drinks, and an big party atmosphere. Celebrating Irishess, Charlie P’s style!
GREEN GREEN & MORE GREEN
Not sure why it is, but people really love to dress up and what better reason than Paddy’s Day! Green, Green, Green :)
You'll never see so much green in one place...brilliant, it helps that ts the best colour in the world too.T-shirts, Trousers, Skirts, Ties, Shoes, Socks, Hats, Earrings...you'll see the lot in green! Shamrocks on faces, on hands, shamrocks everywhere! and very important...Green Nail Polish!!
So I guess that gives an indication of what’s on the cards in the pub on St Patricks Day, food, drinks, music, party, costume, and colour.... all combining to give one hell of a blast of Craic!!
Green Beer
And for that one time of the year, Green Beer...the guys at the Ottakringer Brewery brew up a big batch for us and wow does it go down well in the pub!!
Behind the scenes on St Patrick's Day at Charlie P's
So that’s it, all that’s left is for Ronan and his A Team to prepare in the way they know how. Priority number one every year.... make sure to have enough beer!!
Dan will work his magic and have the place decorated the way he knows how, on point! Kitchen crew will be ready with all their tastes of Ireland!
Brian, Cian and the rest of the crew will be providing the beers, whiskeys, shots and working like people possessed! An incredibly intense few days of prep, work and clean up.... the team never cease to amaze.
Incredible efforts all round to make it all work and create a memorable Paddy’s Day experience for one and all!
Happy St. Patrick's Day and Slainte!!
St Patricks Day 2025 at Charlie P's
Preparations are well under way for the Saint Patrick's weekend celebrations this year. Chef Ali is busy fine-tuning his recipes for this year's food specials which he will reveal in the lead up to the big Day.
Our Fish and Chips are always a complete hit; together with a pint of stout, sure a perfect way of replicating that true Irish scene! So yep, Irish culinary delights all the way!!
ps. for your nightcap, Blacks "Triple Threat" Irish Whiskey is the right job!
