Parade at 1:15 PM!
2026 Theme: Paint The Town Green
For 52 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 1.5-mile-long route handing out 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 on March 14th 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 12
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 13
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 14
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 1:15 PM. 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, and end at the Daggett/Cross Lake bridge north of MarineMax.
Lucky Lanyard Raffle, Events & Activities
Try your luck at winning big in the Lucky Lanyard Raffle! Purchase a raffle ticket and see if you are lucky enough to win! BONUS – with each raffle ticket purchase, you get a FREE Lucky Lanyard 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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