Let’s be honest: St. Paul is legendary for St. Patrick’s Day, but trying to find a parking spot near the parade route is enough to make anyone see red instead of green. Between the $40 event parking and the wall-to-wall crowds, the “luck of the Irish” can feel a little thin. If you’re look ing for a 2026 celebration that’s heavy on the fun and light on the stress, it’s time to head to the Twin Cities Gateway. Whether you’re in Blaine, Anoka, Fridley, or Mounds View, we’re serving up authentic Irish vibes, world-class live music, and—true to our promise—plenty of places to park your car for free. The “Big Three” Events You Can’t Miss The North Metro doesn’t just do one day of Irish fun; we stretch the luck across the whole week. Mounds View St. Patrick’s Day Bash (March 13): Kick off the holiday weekend early on Friday night (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM) at the Mounds View Community Center. This is the ultimate family-friendly starter. It’s FREE and features the high-energy folk sounds of Fiddle and Flannels, plus games for the kids and plenty of “green” treats. The “Get Lucky” Treasure Hunt (Anoka): On Saturday, March 14, downtown Anoka transforms into a treasure seeker’s paradise. Local favorites like MaGillycuddy’s and 201 Tavern offer special “Lucky” buttons for deals, and you’ll want to stop by Dan Gould Jewelers—they’ve been known to hide real jewelry prizes for lucky hunters. Luck of the Lanes at Flaherty’s (Arden Hills): Running from March 11–17, Flaherty’s Arden Bowl is the unofficial Irish headquarters of the Gateway. Expect Lucky Irish Bingo, live music from the band Legacy, and a corned beef and cabbage menu that hasn’t changed (because it’s perfect) in decades. Sláinte! The Best Pours Playlists If your St. Paddy’s Day checklist involves a proper pour and a plate of comfort food, these Gateway staples are mandatory stops: 10K Brewing (Anoka): On Sunday, March 15, catch the St. Patrick’s Day Bus Crawl. It’s a ticketed event ($45) that connects you to local legends like Alloy Brewing in Coon Rapids. Expect live music from Luke Bakken and Lazarus, plus exclusive small-batch Irish Reds on tap. Alloy Brewing Company (Coon Rapids): Known for their “Leprechaun Shenanigans” party, Alloy is the place for costume contests and “Midnight Snack” infusions. Keep an eye out for their specialized Caramel Macchiato Stout or Reuben-style pizzas that usually make a guest appearance. MaGillycuddy’s (Anoka): If you want the full Irish Pub experience without the St. Paul price tag, this is it. On March 17, the street outside often turns into a mini-festival with bagpipes, heavy pours of Guinness, and a crowd that knows how to celebrate. Crooners Supper Club (Fridley): For those who prefer a “Supper Club” vibe over a “Pub” vibe, Crooners is hosting elegant Celtic sets. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a Keeper’s Heart Whiskey flight and some of the best live jazz-infused Irish music in the metro. Family-Friendly “Luck” St. Paddy’s isn’t just for the pub-crawlers. The Gateway is packed with ways to keep the “wee ones” entertained: Appleberry’s Attic (Anoka): Get crafty at their Walk-In Workshops on March 13 and 14. It’s the perfect place to make some green décor that isn’t just a plastic bead necklace. Urban Air (Coon Rapids): Looking for something low-key? They offer Sensory Friendly Play earlier in the month, a great way to celebrate inclusivity and fun without the loud bells and whistles. North Sea Consort (Anoka): Head to the Heart of the City Music Factory on March 17 for an evening of authentic Irish music that’s suitable for all ages. The “Zero Parking Fee” Promise We put it in the title, so here’s the scoop: Unlike downtown, where you’ll spend 20 minutes circling a ramp, the Twin Cities Gateway is built for ease. Anoka: Plenty of free public lots scattered throughout the downtown shopping district. Blaine Mounds View: Most event venues and restaurants offer massive, complimentary surface lots. Fridley: Easy, free parking at major hubs like Crooners or local breweries. Pro Tip: If you do want to see the big Minneapolis parade, park for free at your Gateway hotel and take a quick Uber.  You’ll save your gold for another pint of Guinness! Turn the Celebration into a Staycation Don’t rush home. The Gateway hotels offer better rates and way more perks (like pools and free hot breakfasts) than the cramped downtown options. For the Family: AmericInn by Wyndham Mounds View is minutes from the community bash and features an indoor pool with a waterslide. For the “Hub” Feel: Best Western Plus Blaine puts you right in the center of the North Metro action with modern rooms and easy access to Highway 10. For the Value: Country Inn Suites (Shoreview) is famous for its cozy lobby and complimentary breakfast—the ultimate cure for a night of St. Paddy’s celebrating. The post Pints, Plates, and Zero Parking Fees: St. Patrick’s Day in the North Metro appeared first on Twin Cities Gateway. ...read more read less