Dive into the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Rockford’s vibrant River District!
Come to downtown Rockford for an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the heart of the River District. Throw on your best green attire, gather your friends and family, and partake in the weekend’s festive activities. There’s something for everyone in our lineup of Irish-themed fun downtown! Plus, make the most of our new Entertainment District program — grab a to-go cup* and enjoy shopping and socializing throughout the downtown area.
*only at participating businesses.
Saturday, March 16th
Start your day at 27 Aluna’s brunch where you’ll get a taste of Ireland via the Philippines with their unique Filipino Cornsilog made with Corned beef, garlic rice, fried potato strings, and two fried eggs.
Shop and wander downtown and get your spot for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Brought to you by the Irish Marching Society the parade line-up will begin at 3:00 PM, with the kickoff at 4:30 PM.
Watch the parade sparkle from Ernie’s Midtown Pub where they will be throwing a parking lot party to watch the festivities! They will have music, bags, corned beef and cabbage, their famous Reubens, and corned beef quesadillas!!! Tullamore Dew and Tullamore Dew Honey drink specials for $4, plenty of giveaways, and pots full of Irish cheer! Check out the Parade Route Map for other lucky spots to join in the fun.
Immediately following the parade, the party continues with PaddyFest at Embassy Suites with The Tooles rocking the stage from 4:30 – 7:30 PM and performances by Rockford Pipe Band and Emerald Wind during band intermissions.
Finish your night at The Tower Kitchen & Bar at Embassy Suites enjoying their Corned Beef & Cabbage Special, crafted with tender corned beef brisket, flavorful cabbage, carrots, seasoned potatoes, and a soft dinner roll. Then pair that with their thirst-quenching drink specials or $5 drafts of Guinness.
Sunday, March 17th
Continue the richness of the St. Patrick’s Day cheer by having brunch with a twist at The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge and their exclusive St. Patrick’s Day Brunch Board featuring Green Eggs & Ham Deviled Eggs, Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites, Spinach Ricotta Wheels, and Corned Beef Muffins.
No matter what flavor your weekend takes, wrap yourself in green and gold—the Rockford River District is calling all leprechauns, Irish-at-heart, and party enthusiasts to a shamrockin’ good time!
Plan Your St. Paddy’s Experience:
Get Drinks to-go in the Entertainment District
View Parade Route and Event Details
Discover More River District Attractions
Join us in the Rockford River District, where Irish eyes are smiling and spirits run high. Sláinte!