With America’s first St. Patrick’s Day celebration under its belt, Boston is clearly poised and ready to celebrate on March 17. From a huge and raucous 287-year old parade to live Celtic punk rock music to green shamrocks everywhere, here are a few ways to keep those Irish (or otherwise) eyes smilin’ this St. Patrick Day. Sláinte!

Southie St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Southie’s streets come alive for Boston’s famous St Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the largest of its kind in the nation. Held this year from 1 to 5 p.m. on March 17, it typically draws up to 800,000 people. What began in 1737 as a gesture of solidarity among the city’s new Irish immigrants translates to modern day revelers keen on pre-gaming, wearing all the green, and celebrating with high energy. The parade starts its 3.5-mile route at the Broadway T station on the Red Line and will follow its normal long route again this year.

St. Patrick’s Day 5K Road Race in Boston

First run in 1940, this long-standing race tradition kicks off a couple of hours before the main parade on March 17 at 11 a.m. More than 1,750 runners strong, you’ll be able to tell who were the first 650 to enter – they proudly wear the official long-sleeved race shirts designed by none other than Boston’s own Celtic punk rock group, The Dropkick Murphys. A bonus: race proceeds go to support South Boston youth programs.

The Dropkick Murphys annual St. Patrick’s Day concerts

Love their 5K Road Race tee but want more? Front man and bassist Ken Casey and his band give up all the punk rock mayhem for their annual St. Patrick Day weekend concerts. Things kick off March 14 at the House of Blues, then they’ll move across the street to MGM Music Hall for three shows, March 15 through 17. A Saturday ticket also gives you access to a Mini Concert on Saturday (a fundraiser to benefit their charitable foundation, Claddagh Fund) at 2pm. While the tickets are pricey at $150, each adult can bring two kids under 10 for free. Too much Guinness throughout the day and just want your couch? You can still be part of the party with the band’s streamed show on March 17, beginning at 9 p.m. on VEEPS. Tickets for all shows are here.

Nosh and pour – the Irish way

Corned Beef, cabbage, and a pint of Guinness with just the right amount of cascade after the pour – what’s not to love about the food and drink that celebrates Ireland? Boston and its surrounding areas are full of plenty of haunts to satisfy (most even have live Irish music seisiúns). Check out J.J. Foley’s, The Burren in Somerville’s Davis Square, The Dubliner Pub, The Black Rose, M.J. O’Connor’s, Lansdowne Pub, and Ned Devine’s (there are plenty more).

If you are looking to visit Boston this St. Patrick’s Day check out our guides to staying at the Encore Boston and the Newbury.