Crosslake St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Celebration

Events, Things To Do

2024 Crosslake St. Patrick's Day Celebration

Saturday, March 16, 2024

Crosslake, MN

Parade at 2PM!

Throwback to the 70's - Green & Groovy

For 50 years, Crosslake has been celebrating the coming of Spring with a St. Patrick’s Day Parade. What started out in the 70’s as a remedy for Cabin Fever, has grown into a destination event for thousands of green-clad, Irish-for-a-day, weekend enthusiasts. Some build a float and travel the 2-mile-long route tossing hundreds of pounds of candy and trinkets, and others set up lawn chairs, days in advance to get ”their perfect spot” for family and friends.

The Crosslake St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Celebration was started in 1975 by two Italian restauranteurs and an Irish priest. Today, the event has grown into a weekend destination that draws thousands of green-wearing, Irish-for-a-day enthusiasts. Local businesses and the community rally around this event welcoming thousands to this weekend destination. The Parade is the star of the show with floats buzzing with music, candy, and entertainment.

Come visit Crosslake March 16 and see for yourself why the parade has been declared the Best (Event) of the Brainerd Lakes and the Best Parade in the State!

Event Highlights

Thursday, March 14

The first clue for the St. Paddy’s Pot O’ Gold is released Thursday morning. If you find the medallion, you could win thousands in prizes from local Crosslake businesses. You’ll also find trivia in the evening at 14 Lakes Craft Brewing and Moonlite Bay.

Friday, March 15

If the medallion hasn’t been found, the second clue will be released. Various establishments will have live music/bands or DJs, if you’re looking for a night out dancing.

Saturday, March 16

Saturday is the big day of family festivities. Head to the Crosslake American Legion for a pancake breakfast. The final clue (as needed) for St. Paddy’s Pot O’ Gold—this should hopefully guide you to the medallion and the treasure. If you like a healthy start to the morning join in on the Clover Dash 5k! This run is family friendly with a kids run and a 5k that you can run or walk.

There are pre-parade activities in Town Square and a parking lot party at Whitefish Lodge & Suites.

The parade starts at 2:00 p.m. Back this year is a longer parade route for more viewing opportunities. The parade will start in Crosslake Town Square on Swann Drive and go past Crosslake Ace Hardware turning right to go past Andy’s. From there, the parade will head north on County Road 66 past Lake Country Crafts & Cones all the way to Crosslake Log Church.

Shenanigans VIP Experience

If you’re looking to upgrade your parade experience, the Shenanigans VIP Experience is a great value for all of the parade extras. You’ll be in the center of all the action with sweet swag and upgrades.

When you become a VIP, you’ll get to be in the VIP heated tent with one meal and one drink of choice, plus access to a full service bar. Live music featuring Emily Hammer will be providing a cozy atmosphere as you lounge on haybale seating, or chat with a group of friends at a high top. You won’t have to worry about battling with the masses to see the parade. VIP gets preferred curbside front row seating. You’ll also get a St. Patrick’s Day limited edition tumbler.

Blinky Button Raffle, Events & Activities

Try your luck at winning big in the Blinky Button Raffle! Purchase a raffle ticket and see if you are lucky enough to win one of 30+ prizes – valued over $9,300! BONUS – with each raffle ticket purchase, you get a FREE Blinky Button that gets you local deals and discounts! Local shops and restaurants will be offering deals on green beer and corned beef, sweatshirts and décor! End the night dancing away at one of the area establishments with live music and more! Make the Crosslake St. Patrick’s Day Parade your next tradition.

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