Montreal is about to turn green for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, kicking off on Tuesday, March 17. The city will come alive with music, raised pints, and celebrations—the perfect occasion for McGill students to blow off steam at the time-honoured Irish pubs serving up an exciting line-up of festivities. Eat some Lucky Charms, throw on all the green garb you have, and follow this guide to make the most of St. Patrick’s Day in Montreal.
McKibbins Irish Pub – Rue Bishop Location
McKibbins Irish Pub is a slice of Ireland right in the heart of Montreal. While the location on St. Laurent is a popular watering hole for McGillians, head down to their location on 1426 Rue Bishop to kick off your celebrations. On St. Patty’s, the pub will feature live music from musicians Jono Trio and Tebo and the Mercenaries starting at 12:00 p.m.
Hurley’s Irish Pub
After McKibbins, continue on to Hurleys Irish Pub. A Montreal landmark since 1993, Hurleys is located at 1225 Rue Crescent and hosts live music every night. Rest assured that its St. Patrick’s Day celebration is not one to miss! Hurleys serves 19 beers on tap, not to mention a long list of Irish whiskeys that are sure to warm you up inside and out to combat Montreal’s mid-March chilly weather. If whiskey isn’t your drink of choice, keep it simple with an excellent pour of Guinness, highly rated by one of Guinness’ Master Brewers.
McLeans Pub
For traditional Irish music and celebrations, McLeans Pub on 1210 Rue Peel will host Belfast Andi and Patrick Hutchinson on March 17. For the 34th year in a row, they will host The Riley Band on March 23, the day of Montreal’s St. Patrick’s Day parade. McLeans is known for its wide selection of imported and domestic beers, complete with a cozy atmosphere, pool, and foosball tables upstairs. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere of this iconic Montreal destination on one of its most iconic days of the year.
Maison Publique McLeans
Next door to McLeans Pub, Maison Publique McLeans, located at 1420 Peel, offers a similar energy in a more intimate setting. Housed within a historic Montreal establishment, the bar blends traditional Irish charm with a lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and plenty of TVs for sports fans. From March 17 to 22, Maison Publique McLeans will host comedy nights, live music, DJs, and weekend brunch featuring traditional Irish music.
Peel Pub
Despite closing its doors eight months ago after 63 years of business, Peel Pub, located at 1196 Rue Peel, is set to re-open on St. Patrick’s Day. This legendary spot, believed by many to be the oldest pub in town, is a long-standing Montreal institution patronized by locals and tourists alike. The pub’s new ownership has been working hard to set the place up for Montreal’s seminal celebration, renovating the space with 24 draft-beer lines, including six Quebecois craft beers. Don’t miss the chance to ring in a new era of The Peel Pub this upcoming Tuesday, March 17!
Ye Olde Orchard Pub & Grill
Ye Olde Orchard Pub & Grill, located at 1189 Rue de la Montagne, will serve up a special menu during the month of March for St. Patrick’s Day, mixing Montreal classics with Irish flair. Head to Ye Olde as the final stop on your St. Patrick’s Day Crawl for a delicious feast. To start, order the Paddy’s Poutine or the Irish Nachos, then tuck into the Bangers n’ Mash with Guinness gravy, or the corned beef sandwich with fries. The Tribune recommends washing down your meal with the Irish Maid cocktail, complete with Jameson Whiskey, Lemon Juice, Elderflower Syrup, and Cucumber Syrup. If you’re still not ready to finish off the night, order a round of Dublin Drops with your friends for the ultimate St. Patrick’s Day challenge: A drop-shot of Jameson and Bailey’s into half a pint of Guinness—but work quickly, as the drink will curdle if left unfinished for more than a minute.
