Sober St Patrick’s Day returns to New York City for 13th year – Irish Star

The family-friendly event celebrates the richness of Irish culture and the legacy of St Patrick
Sober St Patrick’s Day is returning to New York City for its 13th year next month. The movement was started as an effort to “reclaim” St Patrick’s Day with a family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration.

The renowned event has proved popular with a range of people who have enjoyed music, dancing and other performances over the years. Sober St Patrick’s Day will take place on March 16 this year, the same day as the New York City St Patrick’s Day parade

The festivities will kick off after the parade at 4.30pm at the Church of the Epiphany Parish Hall on 2nd Avenue. The initial roster of those slated to perform includes All Ireland champion fiddler Brian Conway, uilleann piper Jerry O’Sullivan, champion accordionist Seagda Coyle and violinist Fiona Conway Fogarty.

• Dates and locations of every St Patrick’s Day parade happening in New York
• San Francisco St Patrick’s Day Grand Marshal announced

The award-winning dancers from the Donny Golden School of Irish Dance will also take the stage on the night and more acts are set to be announced in the coming weeks. There will also be crafts, games, refreshments and a light supper served during the event.

Sober St Patrick’s Day founder and chairperson William Spencer Reilly said: “Once again, we’ll gather to celebrate Ireland’s biggest day through the arts, culture, food, and warm welcome the Irish are known for.

“St Patrick’s Day should be a celebration of the richness of Irish culture and the legacy of St Patrick, rather than an excuse for overindulging in alcohol. We welcome all to join us for Sober St Patrick’s Day and to enjoy Ireland’s biggest day in a healthy, enriching way.”

The event will run until 7pm. Tickets cost $35 for adults, $30 for seniors and students and $12 for children under the age of 12. Children aged two and under go free. Tickets are available at soberstpatricksday.org.