St. Patrick’s Day in Ocala

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ocala/Marion County. Whether you’re looking for lively Irish music, festive events, or a hearty plate of corned beef and cabbage, you’ll find plenty of ways to get into the spirit of the holiday.

Irish History
Events
Food & Drink

St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, and Ocala/Marion County is the perfect place to celebrate! From cultural connections to can’t-miss celebrations, here’s how to make the most of St. Patrick’s Day in Ocala.

A City with Irish Roots

Did you know Ocala has a special connection to Ireland? Through the international twinning program, Ocala became a sister city to Newbridge in County Kildare, Ireland, in 2008. This partnership was established to promote cultural enrichment and recognize the similarities between the two destinations—especially their shared love of horse racing.

One of the most striking tributes to this connection is the “Sláinte” horse statue, part of Ocala’s Horse Fever® Painted Statue Trail. Located at the Ocala First Responder’s Campus, this colorful work of art features the Gaelic phrase for “cheers” and represents the friendship between Ocala and Newbridge.

St. Patrick’s Day Events in Ocala

Downtown Ocala’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration!

  • Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
  • Time: Starts at 5:00 PM
  • Location: Downtown Ocala Square

The celebration takes place Monday, March 17, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., when the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales will be hitched to the legendary red beer wagon in the heart of Downtown Ocala Square. This St. Patrick’s Day event will bring the community together for an evening of tradition, excitement, and unforgettable memories.

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Clover’s Revenge: Sunset Songs Series

  • Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025
  • Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM
  • Location: Ocala Historic Downtown Square
  • Cost: Free

This free outdoor concert will feature Clover’s Revenge, a trio known for blending traditional Irish pub music with Celtic punk rock. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a night of energetic tunes in the heart of Ocala.

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Drinking Around the World Bar Crawl!

  • Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
  • Time: 2:00 PM
  • Location: The Lodge Ocala

Get ready, Ocala! The Lodge Ocala and all four bars are going all out for a Drinking Around the World Bar Crawl – St. Patty’s Day Edition! Each bar will feature beers from different regions:
The Lodge: USA, Ireland, England, Poland
Loft: Mexico, South & Central America
Magnolia Room: Germany, Poland, Netherlands
Anti-Monopoly Drug Store Speakeasy: Russia, Spain, France

Live music, themed drinks, and the ultimate St. Patty’s Day vibes!

St. Patrick's Day at The Lodge Ocala!

  • Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
  • Time: Starts at 6:00 PM
  • Location: The Lodge Ocala

Get ready for a Shamrockin’ good time as The Lodge Ocala celebrates St. Patrick’s Day in true Irish style! Enjoy live entertainment from the First Coast Highlanders Bagpipe Band, delicious food specials like Shepherd’s Pie and Bangers & Mash, and plenty of green beer and Guinness. Put on your green, grab a pint, and let’s make this a St. Paddy’s Day to remember!

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George Casey at Orange Blossom Opry

  • Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
  • Time: 7:00 PM
  • Location: 16439 SE 138th Terrace, Weirsdale, FL
  • Cost: $29-$44

Enjoy an evening of laughter with Irish comedian George Casey, whose storytelling and sharp wit have entertained audiences across the country.

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Where to Enjoy Irish-Inspired Eats and Drinks

O’Malley’s Alley

Location: 24 S Magnolia Avenue, Ocala

Known as Ocala’s St. Patrick’s Day headquarters since 1997, this downtown Irish pub offers green beer, live music, and classic Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage.

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Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

Location: 1110 SW 93rd Court Road, #12, Ocala

This family-friendly pub will be serving up Irish-inspired fare and holiday specials.

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Explore Ocala’s Irish Heritage

Beyond the festivities, Ocala’s connection to Irish culture runs deep. Take a stroll through downtown and admire the “Sláinte” horse statue, or visit the city’s historic sites and natural springs, which have made it a beloved destination for generations. If you’re feeling inspired, you might even plan a future trip to Newbridge, where you can explore Ireland’s scenic Grand Canal and historic castles.

Plan Your St. Patrick’s Day in Ocala

Whether you’re raising a pint at a local pub, dancing to live music, or learning about Ocala’s Irish ties, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Check out the latest event updates and get ready for a weekend filled with Irish cheer.

Looking for more things to do? Explore all that Ocala/Marion County has to offer here.

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