From the traditional pubs of Ireland to the heart of the Bluegrass, an exciting lineup of musicians and dancers is set to transform downtown Lexington into a vibrant showcase of Irish culture on Saturday, March 14. This year’s performance schedule promises a high-energy mix of international headliners and homegrown talent.
The celebration officially kicks off at 10:45 a.m. at Henry A. Tandy Centennial Plaza with the traditional “Blessing of the Keg.” The ceremony serves as the start of a daylong free festival at the Fifth Third Pavilion that bridges the gap between old-world traditions and modern Irish culture.
“We are incredibly proud to present a lineup that showcases the vibrant talent within our own community alongside world-class performers from across the Atlantic,” says Liza Hendley Betz, festival chair. “From the first steps of our local dance students to the final notes of the day, this festival is designed to be a true celebration of Irish heritage and Bluegrass hospitality.”
“Whether you’re here for the precision and rhythm of our local Irish dancers or the fun-filled sets from The Woolly Jumpers visiting from Dublin, there is truly something for every member of the family to enjoy,” Betz said.
2026 Festival lineup – Saturday, March 14, Henry A. Tandy Centennial Plaza at the Fifth Third Pavilion
- 10:45 a.m. – Blessing of the Keg
- 11 a.m. – Bluegrass Ceili Academy
- 11:30 a.m. – St. Andrew’s Academy
- 12:15 p.m. – The Woolly Jumpers
- 1 p.m. – Break for the Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade
- 2 p.m. – William Sutherland Reid Pipes & Drums
- 2:30 p.m. – Kentucky McTeggart Irish Dancers
- 3:15 p.m. – Kentucky United Pipes & Drums
- 4 p.m. – Celtic Blue
The Saturday festival serves as the centerpiece of a brand-new, expanded weekend of festivities. On Friday, March 13, the celebration kicks off at the historic Lyric Theatre with Lexington St. Patrick’s Eve LIVE!, a ticketed concert headlined by internationally acclaimed indie-rock quintet Carbon Leaf, with the Woolly Jumpers and local favorites Lucy Becker and bagpiper Keith Murphy.
While the Saturday festival and parade remain free to the public, the community is encouraged to secure tickets for the Friday night kickoff concert in advance via the Lyric Theatre’s website.
For those looking to participate in the festivities, the following application deadlines are approaching:
- Festival craft market applications: Due by Jan. 30, 2026
- Parade unit applications: Due by March 7, 2026
Visit lexingtonstpatsparade.org to view the full schedule, purchase concert tickets or submit parade applications.
About the Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival
The Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival is one of the city’s longest-running civic festivals, managed by the Bluegrass Irish Society and produced by Lexington Parks & Recreation.