Downtown Lexington will come alive with the sights and sounds of Irish culture on Saturday, March 14, as the 2026 Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival takes over Henry A. Tandy Centennial Plaza.

The daylong celebration begins at 10:45 a.m. with the time-honored “Blessing of the Keg” at the Fifth Third Pavilion, marking the official start of a free festival that blends old-world tradition with modern Irish flair.

“We are incredibly proud to present a lineup that showcases the vibrant talent within our own community alongside world-class performers from across the Atlantic,” said Liza Hendley Betz, festival chair. “From the first steps of our local dance students to the final notes of the day, this festival is designed to be a true celebration of Irish heritage and Bluegrass hospitality.”

This year’s lineup features a dynamic mix of local performers and international headliners, promising high-energy music and dance throughout the afternoon.

Following the Blessing of the Keg, Bluegrass Ceili Academy takes the stage at 11 a.m., followed by St. Andrew’s Academy at 11:30 a.m. At 12:15 p.m., Dublin-based favorites The Woolly Jumpers will bring their lively, family-friendly set to the plaza.

The festival pauses at 1 p.m. for the Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade before resuming at 2 p.m. with William Sutherland Reid Pipes & Drums. Kentucky McTeggart Irish Dancers perform at 2:30 p.m., followed by Kentucky United Pipes & Drums at 3:15 p.m. The day concludes with Celtic Blue at 4 p.m.

The Saturday festival serves as the centerpiece of a newly expanded weekend of festivities. On Friday, March 13, the celebration kicks off at the historic Lyric Theatre with Lexington St. Patrick’s Eve LIVE!, a ticketed concert headlined by internationally acclaimed indie-rock quintet Carbon Leaf. The evening will also feature The Woolly Jumpers, local favorite Lucy Becker and bagpiper Keith Murphy.

The Alltech Lexington St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival, one of the city’s longest-running civic celebrations, is managed by the Bluegrass Irish Society and produced by Lexington Parks & Recreation.