Every year around this time, the residents in our neck of the woods get ready for a holiday unlike any other – St. Patrick’s Day. For those of Irish decent or lineage, it is a time to celebrate our heritage through parades, song and, of course, imbibing at our favorite Irish pub. Regardless of heritage, many will flock to an Irish bar in March, so here are some of my favorites.

If you are looking for a truly traditional Irish tavern, there are quite a few to choose from, including some of the oldest here in Worcester – Moynagh’s Tavern and Moynihan’s Pub. Although there has always been some dispute over which one is the oldest, both establishments have been around for almost 80 years.

O’Connor’s, on the West Boylston/Worcester line, is also a favorite throughout the year with its beautiful décor, top-notch fare and fine whiskey selection, as well as a perfectly poured Guinness!

The Banner Pub in the Canal District is always a must-stop for a cold pint and is always buzzing in March. The Canal is also home to Patsy Dugan’s, The Nines, Fiddler’s Green, Union and Compass taverns and the new kid on the block, Whiskey on Water.

If you find yourself on the other side of town, Galway Bay Irish Pub on Stafford Street, Marty’s Pub on Canterbury Street, and Breen’s Café, tucked away on Cambridge Street, all have that traditional Irish vibe year round. Whiskey Tango, Mahoney’s, The Blarney Stone and Leitrim’s, along the parade route on Park Avenue, are favorites with college students, and you can expect nothing short of insanity on Parade Day. The Press Box on Lincoln Street is another good bet and is a post-parade party destination every year.

Funky Murphy’s on Shrewsbury Street is also a top destination for great food, live entertainment and a fresh pint. Bar-hopping in the Greendale neighborhood? Check out Smitty’s Tavern on West Boylston Street or Bennie’s Café up on West Mountain Street.

If you are celebrating north of the city and looking for some good, authentic grub, The Other Place Pub in Boylston has excellent food and a traditional feel. A quick trip up Route 70 brings you to Clinton, where – sadly – The Old Timer, an Irish favorite since 1929, recently closed its doors. Check around St Patrick’s Day, though, as they may have one last hurrah on the holiday! Spruce Street Tavern, Clem’s and Simple Man Saloon are still kicking if you’re thirsty. Up the road in Sterling, The Black Sheep Tavern gets pretty crazy on St. Patrick’s Day with live Irish acoustic by yours truly all afternoon!

Heading into the Twin City area north, there a few notable Irish establishments where you can feel comfortable getting your green on. Sean Patrick’s in Lunenburg has great Irish fare and drink, as does Mickey Shea’s further up Route 13. The American Graffiti and Donnelly’s on Summer Street are always good bets. Or head over to South Street in Fitchburg and hit Partner’s, which boasts a traditional front bar and fresh Guinness. Worth a venture to Westminster, McNally’s boasts excellent food and traditional Irish entertainment in early March.

Wherever you end up, stay safe, have fun and keep the Uber app handy!

By Chris Reddy