Colorado: The Ultimate Destination for St. Patrick's Day Celebrations… No, Really!
Written by: Boyle O’Malley
Thousands dressed in vibrant Irish green flooded the streets of Denver in the early morning hours Saturday to take part in Colorado's largest St. Patrick's Day Parade.
This festive event has a rich history, dating all the way back to 1889, when the very first St. Patrick's Day parade took place in downtown Denver. Ever since, the parade has become an annual tradition, showcasing Colorado's deep appreciation for Irish culture and heritage.
So why does Colorado seem to celebrate St. Patrick's Day bigger, harder, and possibly better than most states?
1921 Saint Patrick's Day parade at 16th and Broadway. (Colorado History Museum)
It's possibly because the Irish spirit runs deep within the veins of Coloradans. A disproportionate number take pride in their heritage and use this special day as an opportunity to showcase their Irish roots.
Many Coloradans can trace their ancestry back to Ireland, and this connection to the Emerald Isle is deeply cherished. According to census figures analyzed by Axios, approximately 10.5% of Denver residents proudly claim Irish heritage. This percentage surpasses the national average of 9.5% and is consistent with the overall state average of 10.7%.
For those seeking the true pot of gold, the western part of Colorado is where the Irish spirit truly thrives. Counties such as Hinsdale, Mineral, Gilpin, and La Plata boast some of the highest percentages of Irish ancestry in the state.
In Hinsdale County, a remarkable 19.5% of the population claims Irish heritage, followed closely by Mineral County at 18.5%. Gilpin County and La Plata County also have significant Irish populations, with 16.1% and 14.9% respectively. Even Kiowa County on the eastern plains proudly stands tall among the top five, with a hearty 16.5% of its population tracing their roots to Ireland.
Have a gander at Axios' deadly Irish green map!
Coloradans are not only proud of their Irish heritage, but they also wholeheartedly embrace the spirit of St. Patrick's Day. The festivities in Colorado go beyond just a parade, with numerous events and activities taking place throughout the state. From lively pub crawls to traditional Irish music performances, Colorado offers a wide range of ways to celebrate. It's a time when the whole community comes together to honor Irish traditions, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and create lasting memories.
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Either way, the truth is whether you have Irish ancestry or not, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities and experience the warmth and camaraderie that Colorado offers on St. Patrick's Day.
And as the years go by, Colorado's St. Patrick's Day celebrations only seem to grow stronger and more vibrant.
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