Steam Whistle’s St. Patrick’s Day Party
Toronto’s iconic pilsner may be far from an Irish stout, but that’s not keeping it off the St. Paddy’s bandwagon. The brewery kicks off Toronto’s Irish celebrations with dance performances, Irish cuisine and predictably copious amounts of beer. Admission proceeds go toward Sunday’s parade.
Where: Steam Whistle Brewing, 255 Bremner Blvd. (at Rees St.), 416-362-2337.
When: March 14, 3 p.m.–1 a.m.
How much: admission $10.

Irish Embassy Pub & Grill
This archetypal Irish pub offers an appetizing conclusion to Sunday’s long, festive stroll: the chef is preparing a hearty beef and Guinness stew especially for the big day. Though the pub opens early on Sunday, expect the holiday’s usual lineup.
Where: 49 Yonge St. (at Wellington St.), 416-866-8282.
When: March 15 and 17, 11 a.m.–2 a.m.
How much: lunch $12–$25, dinner $14–$25.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Teeming masses decked in green congregate for Toronto’s 22nd annual parade, marching through the heart of town with its leprechauns, floats and bands.
Where: starts at Bloor St. W. and St. George St., proceeds west on Bloor, south on Yonge and west on Queen, ending at Nathan Phillips Square.
When: March 15, noon.
How much: free.

Murphy’s Law Irish Pub’s Six Days of Celebration
The pub’s Irish festivities span six days and include numerous free tastings (Smithwicks, Guinness and Harp Lager among them) and several live performances. The pub’s special Sunday brunch combines wholesome Irish fare with Toronto tradition: bacon and potato soup, Guinness-braised corned beef on rye, and sticky toffee pudding.
Where: 1702 Queen St. E. (at Kingston Rd.), 416-690-5516.
When: March 12 and 13, 11 a.m.–2 a.m.; March 14 and 15, 10:30 a.m.–2 a.m.; March 16 and 17, 11 a.m.–2 a.m.
How much: brunch special $7–$13, lunch and dinner $11–$19.

St. Patrick’s Day Tea at Montgomery’s Inn
In honour of its 19th-century founder (as well as the Irish saint), this Etobicoke inn continues its long-standing tradition of whipping up an Irish-themed tea on March 17. This year’s menu includes shamrock sugar cookies, yellowman toffee and porter cake, which is infused with a hint of beer, the holiday’s key ingredient.
Where: 4709 Dundas St. W. (at Islington).
When: March 17, 1 p.m.–4 p.m.
How much: $6.

Fionn MacCool’s St. Patrick’s Week
Guinness takes centre stage for the pub’s week-long festivities, which include performances by numerous live bands, Guinness games and two-pint Fridays (two pints for $9). The pub’s downtown location makes it an ideal spot for a post-work tipple.
Where: 181 University Ave. (at Adelaide St. W.), 416-363-1944.
When: March 11 and 12, 11–11; March 13, 11 a.m.–1 a.m.; March 14, 11–11; March 15, noon–10; March 16 and 17, 11–11.
How much: admission free.

A Touch of Irish
Irish pooches abound at this weekend-long dog showcase featuring the Irish wolfhound—considered the world’s tallest dog. Celtic bands and dancers entertain as visitors interact with the animals and learn from pooch experts.
Where: PawsWay, 245 Queens Quay W. (at Lower Simcoe St.).
When: March 14, 11–6; March 15, 11–4.
How much: free.