St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most festive celebrations of the year in Northern Virginia. Every March, Fairfax County transforms into a hub of Irish culture, music, food, and community gatherings. From traditional Irish pubs and live music to outdoor adventures and local history, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday throughout the week leading up to St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, 2026.
Whether you have Irish roots or simply enjoy the spirit of the holiday, Fairfax County offers a wide range of experiences that capture the charm and traditions of Ireland.
Here is your guide to some of the best ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Fairfax County this year.
Raise a Glass with Irish Whiskey
One of the easiest ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is by sampling Ireland’s most famous spirit. Irish whiskey has been enjoyed for centuries, and many local bars and restaurants in Fairfax County offer extensive selections.
If you want to explore different varieties, consider visiting local establishments known for their whiskey collections.
Popular places to enjoy Irish whiskey include:
• MacMillan Whisky Room at Mosaic District which offers an impressive selection of Irish whiskey options.
• Bourbon Boulevard in Chantilly, where guests can explore a wide variety of whiskey and craft cocktails.
• Many neighborhood bars and restaurants throughout Fairfax County also feature classic Irish favorites such as Jameson, Bushmills, Powers, and Redbreast.
Whether you prefer a neat pour, a classic Irish coffee, or a festive cocktail, St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect excuse to discover a new favorite.
Enjoy Traditional Irish Food
Food is a big part of Irish celebrations, and several Fairfax County restaurants serve traditional Irish dishes that make the holiday even more memorable.
Classic Irish comfort foods you may find on menus during St. Patrick’s Day week include:
• Bangers and mash
• Fish and chips
• Irish beef stew
• Shepherd’s pie
• Potato dishes in every possible form
Some popular Irish pubs and restaurants in Fairfax County include:
• The Old Brogue in Great Falls
• The Auld Shebeen in the City of Fairfax
• Ned Devine’s Irish Gastro Pub in Herndon
These restaurants often host live music and festive celebrations throughout the holiday week, so reservations are recommended since St. Patrick’s Day is one of their busiest times of the year.
Search for a Lucky Four Leaf Clover
If you prefer a quieter way to celebrate, consider heading outdoors to one of Fairfax County’s many parks. The shamrock, a small clover plant, is the national symbol of Ireland and represents good luck.
Clovers can be found across many parks and green spaces throughout Northern Virginia. While the typical clover has three leaves, finding a four leaf clover is considered extremely lucky.
Fun fact:
There are roughly 10,000 three leaf clovers for every one four leaf clover.
Exploring local parks for clovers is a fun family activity and a great way to enjoy the early spring weather.
Some great parks to search for clovers include:
• Burke Lake Park
• Lake Accotink Park
• Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
• Great Falls Park
Enjoy St. Patrick’s Day Events Across Fairfax County
The Irish are known for celebrating with music, dancing, and lively gatherings. Throughout Fairfax County, many venues host special St. Patrick’s Day themed events.
Expect to find:
• Live Irish music and bands
• Traditional Irish dance performances
• Pub celebrations and themed menus
• Family friendly events and festivals
Local pubs and event spaces throughout Fairfax County typically host celebrations throughout the entire week leading up to March 17, so there are plenty of opportunities to join the fun.
Learn About Irish History in Fairfax County
Irish heritage is deeply connected to Fairfax County’s history. During the 1800s, many Irish immigrants arrived in the United States due to the Great Potato Famine, settling in communities throughout Northern Virginia.
Many Irish immigrants found work building railroads and working on farms in the region.
One of the most notable historic sites connected to Irish heritage in Fairfax County is Saint Mary of Sorrows Historic Catholic Church in Fairfax Station.
The church was dedicated in 1860 and became an important spiritual center for Irish railroad workers who had settled in the area. In the early years, priests would often travel to the area and hold mass for workers near the railway lines.
Visitors today can explore the church grounds and learn more about the area’s Civil War history as well as its connection to Clara Barton, whose experiences in Fairfax helped inspire her founding of the American Red Cross.
Nearby, visitors can also explore the Fairfax Station Railroad Museum, which offers additional insights into the railroad history that brought many Irish immigrants to the region.
Celebrate the Spirit of St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day is about more than just wearing green. It is a celebration of culture, heritage, community, and good company. Whether you choose to enjoy Irish cuisine, listen to live music, explore local parks, or learn about the area’s history, Fairfax County offers many ways to celebrate the holiday.
With St. Patrick’s Day falling on March 17, 2026, now is the perfect time to start planning how you will celebrate.
Sláinte to a fun and festive St. Patrick’s Day in Northern Virginia.
For a full calendar for things to do in Fairfax County click on this link:
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