The fourth annual Paddy Fest returns to Williams Park in downtown St. Pete on march 13th - 15th | Paddy Fest

St. Pete’s fourth annual celebration of all things Irish is coming back to downtown St. Pete. And this year, it’s bigger than ever.

Paddy Fest St. Pete returns to Williams Park March 13th – 15th, turning the heart of downtown into a three-day Irish music and cultural festival packed with live bands, traditional dance, food trucks, family activities, and plenty of Guinness.

Now in its fourth year, the festival has evolved into a full-scale Irish music festival with what organizer Pete Boland calls “concert-level production quality.”

“We really upped the caliber of the performances this year,” Boland says. “Our number one priority is attendee experience. We’re going to try to wow every person who walks through those gates.”

And the lineup backs that up.

Headliners include traditional Irish music legend Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones along with national Celtic rock favorites Seven Nations and the high-energy family act The Byrne Brothers.

Traditional Irish music legend Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones will perform Saturday and Sunday durign paddy Fest in downtown St. Pete | Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones

Throughout the weekend, the Williams Park stage will also feature pipe bands, step dance academies and regional performers, with live feeds broadcast on a large screen so the crowd doesn’t miss a note.

Roaming bagpipers and buskers will weave through the park, adding to the festive atmosphere.

But Paddy Fest isn’t just about the music. It’s about turning Williams Park into a full Irish village for the weekend.

Friday night (3–10 p.m.) kicks things off with a 21+ night that’s free to attend.

Expect evening music, a lively vendor market, and full bars pouring Guinness and Tullamore DEW Irish Whiskey. Think of it as a laid-back warmup before the weekend crowds arrive.

Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. are open to all ages, with $25 general admission, free entry for children 14 and under, and discounted tickets available for students and veterans.

The family-friendly programming has become a defining feature of the event over the years.

What started in 2023 as a bold new St. Patrick’s celebration has steadily grown into something much bigger.

Map of the fourth annual Paddy Fest taking place in Williams Park next week | Paddy Fest

“Back in 2023 when we first put it together, we were kind of worried it would turn into a drink-a-thon,” Boland says. “But it’s really become this family-friendly community thing. It’s a way to celebrate Irish heritage, and our love of St. Pete, without fighting the bar crowds on March 17th.”

This year’s festival includes a large Kids Zone with bounce houses, face painting and interactive activities, plus mini golf, an interactive art wall and a photo booth.

The shepherd’s pie eating contest returns, along with raffles, giveaways and interactive competitions throughout the weekend.

More than 40 local vendors will set up shop in the park, offering everything from Irish heritage merchandise and handmade jewelry to art, wellness products and boutique finds.

Food trucks like Charm City Eats, Galvin’s Goodies, Johnny Nevada’s Tamales, and Pamz Pizza Cones will join Irish food favorites and festival bars serving beer, whiskey, and mixed drinks.

The Tullamore DEW VIP Experience will offer a 21+ tent with air conditioning, private restrooms, a full bar with complimentary whiskey tastings, a grazing table, door prizes and intimate live performances.

Single-day VIP access is $30 in addition to general admission. A limited number of $80 All Access VIP Passes include general admission and VIP entry for all three days, plus a gift set with drink coupons and a 2026 festival shirt.

Now in its fourth year, Paddy Fest has evolved into a full-scale Irish music festival with what organizer Pete Boland calls “concert-level production quality.” | Paddy Fest

As with previous years, Paddy Fest will have a charitable component. During Friday’s kickoff, organizers will present a donation to longtime nonprofit partner OceanAid 360, which works to restore marine habitats throughout the region.

Boland, who owns Mary Margaret’s Olde Irish Tavern along with The Galley and The Ship’s Hold, says the festival’s growth has mirrored the city’s own momentum.

“We felt like St. Pete deserved a true Irish and Celtic festival like you see in other cities,” he says. “Every year we learn more, we listen to feedback, and we keep building it.”

Paddy Fest St. Pete takes place March 13th – 15th at Williams Park at 350 2nd Avenue North in downtown St. Pete.

Tickets and full event details are available at PaddyFestStPete.com.