Looking for fun St. Patrick’s Day activities for kids near the North Shore? March is the perfect time to get out of the house and celebrate with family-friendly events, crafts, and festive outings. There are plenty of simple ways to make St. Patrick’s Day special for your kids.
Here are some kid-friendly St. Patrick’s Day activities close to home.
St. Patrick’s Day Parades Kids Will Love
Parades are one of the easiest and most exciting ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with children. Expect marching bands, dancers, and lots of green.
Local parades to watch for include:
• Methuen St. Patrick’s Day Parade – A great local option for families and an easy drive from Haverhill, Andover, and Plaistow. Kids love the marching bands, floats, and festive atmosphere.
https://methuenparade.com/
• Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade – A bigger celebration if you’re up for a day trip. Great for older kids who enjoy the excitement.
Tip: Bring a small bag for candy and dress in layers — March weather can still be chilly.
Library Craft Events and Story Times
Many local libraries host free St. Patrick’s Day crafts and story times, which are perfect for younger kids. These are easy, low-cost outings and a great way to celebrate the holiday locally.
Check event calendars at:
• Haverhill Public Library
• Newburyport Public Library
• Memorial Hall Library – Andover
• Stevens Memorial Library – North Andover
• Plaistow Public Library
• Kelley Library – Salem, NH
Libraries often offer:
Shamrock crafts
Irish-themed story times
Take-home craft kits
Holiday-themed STEM activities
These events tend to fill up quickly in early March, so it’s worth checking the calendars ahead of time.
Simple St. Patrick’s Day Activities at Home
Sometimes the simplest traditions become the most memorable.
Easy ideas families love:
• Make a Leprechaun Trap using a shoebox and craft supplies
• Bake green cupcakes or cookies together
• Create a rainbow scavenger hunt around the house
• Leave leprechaun footprints using paper cutouts or washable paint
• Set up a small gold coin treasure hunt
These activities are especially fun for preschool and elementary-aged kids.
Festive Treat Stops Kids Will Love
Turn St. Patrick’s Day into a mini outing by stopping for festive treats around town.
Look for:
• Green donuts or cookies at local bakeries
• Shamrock cupcakes. If your little ones love decorating sweet treats, check out the St Paddy’s Day Rainbow Cupcakes class at Taste Buds Kitchen on March 14 — a hands-on way to celebrate with plenty of green (and sprinkles).
• Irish soda bread
• Hot chocolate after outdoor activities
Many local bakeries offer seasonal treats throughout March, and it’s a fun excuse to explore a new spot with the kids.
Get Outside and Celebrate
If the weather cooperates, St. Patrick’s Day is a great excuse to get outside after a long winter.
Simple outdoor ideas include:
• A playground visit while everyone wears green
• A family walk downtown to see decorations
• A “find something green” nature challenge
• A walk on a local rail trail or conservation area
Even a short outdoor adventure can make the day feel special.
A Fun Time of Year for Families
Late winter and early spring are a great time to explore local activities with kids. One of the best parts of living in towns on the North shore is having access to small-town events while still being close to larger celebrations.
St. Patrick’s Day is a simple holiday, but it’s one that kids look forward to every year — and it’s a great excuse to get out and make some memories together.
Want More Local Events?
I share local events and family activities happening around the North Shore and Southern New Hampshire throughout the year.
If you’re looking for things to do in Southern New Hampshire or the Boston North Shore, check back for new local event ideas each month.
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