On Sunday, March 16, the South Boston Allied War Veterans Council presents the annual Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade, starting at 11:30 a.m. Beat the crowds — each year, the turnout equals over half a million attendees — and head to the Broadway T station to save spots at the beginning of the parade and witness a nearly 300-year-old tradition. Holiday music, courtesy of bagpipes and marching bands, will fill the streets of Boston. The parade also recognizes Evacuation Day and pays respects to troops and veterans of the United States military. The route weaves through the city on its famous streets across a roughly 3.5-mile span. Arrive early to get as close to the front as possible.

As a rite of passage for the holiday, step back into history with a scenic, educational, and historical walk on Boston’s Irish Heritage Trail through the Back Bay area and beyond, managed by the Boston Irish Tourism Association. This is more than an activity — the steps retrace the footprints of great Irish artists and figureheads of ages past. Three sections and dozens of landmarks constitute this three-mile trail, including picturesque statues that tell stories of the city’s past prominent figures. Twenty separate sites, like the Massachusetts State House and Fenway Park, line the trail, which is perfect for curious history buffs and Bostonians alike. While this is a self-guided tour, the Rose Kennedy Greenway is a straight path and an ideal stroll to reflect on the lessons learned and enjoy a brisk March day in New England.

After the walk through the Irish Heritage Trail, head over to the Irish Cultural Center for another heaping dose of Boston history. The ICC is home to several Sets atop a lush stretch of lawn, the Irish government provides a portion of funds to create a pleasant and authentic experience for guests. Visit the pub for Irish fare and drinks, heightened with traditional music performances both weekly and monthly, and stop into the library to brush up on Irish history and literature. Be sure to check the schedule for workshops and special events.

The Massachusetts State House, the Capitol building perched on Beacon Hill, is recognized by its shining gold dome, much like a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Tours throughout the building highlight the beautiful rotunda and richly decorated interior. Be on the lookout for the sacred cod hanging from the ceiling in the House of Representatives office, representing the importance of the Boston fishing industry.

While corned beef and mash is a traditional choice for St. Patrick’s Day, nothing is heartier than a Sunday roast — or in this case, a Sunday steak dinner at Rare. This three-course tasting menu, priced at $90 per person, includes choices like Ora king salmon, 8 oz prime filet, a Little Gem salad, and dessert.

Don’t get pinched this St. Patrick’s Day. Boston’s luxury shopping scene is ready and waiting to provide the perfect green outfit for a weekend of revelry. At Copley Place, head to designer stores such as Gucci for brightly colored garments, Tommy Bahama's flamboyant patterns, or Versace's glam. Department stores like Neiman Marcus carry hundreds of brands available onsite for added variety and to find the best festive fits.

Boston’s foliage is on show for spring, and St. Patrick’s Day is the opportune weekend to stroll in the great outdoors. At Tower Hill Botanic Garden, over 200 acres of stunning plant life take on educational and aesthetic meaning. The selections are meant to inspire others to see the world’s beauty, and the mission is realized through music events, flower sales, and evening activities among lights and splendor. While enjoying the grounds, stop in at Farmer and the Fork for refreshments or pick up seeds and souvenirs at the Garden Shop. The garden is open daily from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

The Encore Boston Harbor casino offers amazing prizes throughout March. Prizes range from $50 in free play to $100,000 in cash and free play on select days. Free slot play comes in the form of $50,000 Lucky Money Madness on March 15, with $10,000 up for grabs. Head to the poker room or table games to flex those skills and walk away with a well-earned pot of gold. 

Enjoy a spot of whiskey — straight or in a cocktail — at a secret hideaway within Encore Boston Harbor. This speakeasy hidden inside Seamark Seafood & Cocktails is an escape from the rowdy St. Paddy’s Day parties. Beyond the standbys, Old Wives’ Tale offers seasonal cocktails to warm up a brisk spring evening. The menu also offers “no & low” ABV concoctions with Fever Tree tonics and other 0% mix-ins for a break in the drinking action. Visit on Monday from 6–10 p.m. for St. Paddy’s Day treats.

Keep the party going after St. Patrick’s Day. The Boston Celtics will go against the Brooklyn Nets at TD Garden on March 18 at 7:30 p.m. The team is experiencing an incredible season, hovering in the top three teams as the weeks pass. For true fans, catch them on their home turf on additional select days in March. TD Garden, formerly Boston Garden, is a historic location for sports games and other events, such as concerts and live entertainment.

Whether a run or walk is on the agenda, doing it for charity is always best. Boston’s annual St. Patrick’s Day 5k covers ground from Boston Harbor to Broadway, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting the Edgerley Family South Boston Boys & Girls Club. This historic race draws large crowds to participate for a good cause. The race starts on Sunday, March 16, at 9:30 a.m. at the Edgerley Family South Boston Club. Tickets are available online.

For a fun, springy choice on St. Patrick’s Day, try your hand at flower arrangements. Cass School of Floral Design in Watertown brings a fresh take on greenery to the holidays with a flower arranging class at 6:30 p.m. on March 17. Inspired by St. Paddy’s Day, all materials will be provided to create a stunning display. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.