New York’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held more than a decade before the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. Today, NY's St. Patrick’s Day parade fills 5th Avenue with more than 150,000 marchers and 2 million spectators. Did you know the first immigrant to be processed at Ellis Island was a seventeen-year-old girl from Ireland named Annie Moore on December 20, 1891? To learn more about immigrants in New York, consider a tour of Ellis Island during your trip to NYC.

In celebration of St. Paddy’s Day—(don’t you dare spell it St. Patty's Day)—the Windy City of Chicago dyes their river green using vegetable-based powder dyes. A tradition since 1962, the dyeing of the river draws a big crowd, so arrive early to witness the show. There’s also a festive parade with colorful floats, Irish bands, and Irish dancers. Don’t be afraid to wear green from head to toe, and continue the celebrations in local pubs, where you’ll often find similarly green-colored beer.

In a city known for its rowdy festivals (and open-container policies—you can carry open cups of drinks on the street), St. Patrick’s Day is often cited as one of the biggest parties in Savannah. Celebrations along the riverfront include live music, Irish-themed food and drink, and games. While you’re in town for the festivities, sign up for a Savannah Irish history walking tour which often includes stops at iconic Irish landmarks such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Boston's substantial Irish population (as much as 20% claim Irish ancestry) means that St. Patrick’s Day has been celebrated across the city for almost 300 years. Find a place along the 3-mile (5-kilometer) parade route in South Boston for a bit of Irish cheer, music, and dancing, before joining the locals in the pubs for Irish entertainment, food, and drink. The city is also home to the Samuel Adams Brewery, a stop on many walking tours and arguably the place for major beer production.

In NOLA, St. Paddy’s Day is marked with parades, block parties, and live music. Expect to see the beads and flowers of Mardi Gras alongside Irish flags and hearty fare such as Irish stew. Want to eat and drink like the Irish? Order half a dozen oysters and wash them down with a Guinness, before getting to know the local culinary scene during a food-themed walking tour, many of which include stops at the Port Orleans Brewing Co. and the Miel Brewery & Taproom.

Each year, more than 10,000 marchers and dancers (as well as festive floats) fill the streets of Denver and Larimer Square—Denver's most historic and vibrant district—to the delight of almost a quarter of a million spectators. Irish or not, enjoy music from local DJs, bounce on giant inflatables, shop from local vendors, and sup a variety of drinks at the parade. Or, take part in the Runnin’ of the Green race before enjoying a St. Patrick’s Day bar crawl (or local craft beer tour).

San Francisco offers some of the U.S.’ best St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, from block parties and pub crawls to a doggie costume contest. Begin the Irish-themed fun with an Irish coffee at the Buena Vista Café before heading to Market Street, where the official parade starts, complete with Irish dance companies, bands, and more. The city also celebrates Irish culture for St. Patrick’s Day, so look out for readings of Irish poetry and traditional Irish music concerts.