The Bay Area has long represented a vibrant and ever-evolving mosaic of people, traditions and heritage. From traditional Japanese hanami celebrations to Scottish revelries, the region’s cultural festivals invite locals and visitors alike to step into another world and experience the traditions that shape our communities. Here’s just a sampling of events happening in 2025.
Dublin St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
We may associate this country’s historic waves of Irish American immigration with Massachusetts and its New England neighbors. But sunny California is actually home to more Irish Americans — 2.2 million — than any other state, thanks to a Gold Rush-inspired Irish influx. Immigrants Michael Murray and Jeremiah and Eleanor Fallon arrived in 1846, seeking farmland and soon, gold. There’s a Dublin school named after Murray, and Eastern Alameda County was originally named Murray Township.
Spectator Delbert Lewis, of Livermore, gives the thumbs up as he watches participants in the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Calif., on Saturday, March 18, 2023. (Ray Chavez/Bay Area News Group)
It’s only fitting that the Bay Area city of Dublin — with a name and rolling green hills that conjure up the Emerald Isle — honor its namesake with a lively parade, Irish dancing, traditional food and an abundance of family-friendly festivities each year on the weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day. The festival features three stages, with everything from Irish folk bands to Celtic rockers, alongside food stalls serving up corned beef sliders, boxty and other festive fare. As the parade winds through downtown Dublin, it offers a jubilant display of Irish culture and community pride.
The 2025 celebration — Dublin’s 41st — will be held March 15-16;
Details:dublinstpats.com.
