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When March rolls around in the Midlands, everything gets a little greener and a lot more festive. Columbia’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations bring together lively pubs, local restaurants, and one of the Southeast’s biggest Irish festivals. Whether you're looking for a classic pint, live music, or a full day of family friendly fun, this guide highlights some of the best places and events around Columbia and Lexington to celebrate the holiday with great food, good company, and plenty of Irish cheer.

Featured Local Events & Pubs

St. Pat’s in Five Points

Who they are:
St. Pat’s in Five Points is the Southeast’s largest one day St. Patrick’s Day celebration and the Midlands’ biggest annual street festival. This iconic Columbia event brings thousands together for live music, family activities, a parade, and a full day of Irish themed fun.

When:
March 14, 2026 | 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Highlights:
• St. Pat’s Parade at 10:00 AM
• Get to the Green 5K / 10K / Family Fun Run
• Live music on multiple stages
• Pot O’ Gold Playland for kids 

Website & Social:
https://stpatscolumbia.com | https://www.instagram.com/stpatsfivepoints | https://www.facebook.com/stpatsfivepoints

Why we love them:
This is the event that turns Columbia green every year. It is loud, joyful, and packed with local spirit. If you want the full St. Patrick’s Day experience in the Midlands, this is ground zero.

O’Hara’s Public House

Who they are:
O’Hara’s Public House is an authentic Irish pub in historic downtown Lexington known for warm hospitality, classic Irish dishes, and a lively community atmosphere. The restaurant blends Irish comfort food with American favorites and a strong lineup of beer, wine, and spirits. 

Current Promotions / Specials:
2026 Shamrock Festival drinks and seasonal Irish themed offerings (details listed on website).

Website & Social:
https://www.oharas-public-house.com | https://www.instagram.com/oharaspublichouse | https://www.facebook.com/oharaspublichouse

Why we love them:
Downtown Lexington feels a little more Irish the moment you walk in. It is welcoming, lively, and exactly the kind of place where a casual pint turns into a full evening with friends.

The British Bulldog Pub

Who they are:
The British Bulldog Pub is a locally owned Columbia pub serving traditional British dishes alongside craft beers and classic ales. With owners from Liverpool and the Midlands community behind it, the pub brings authentic European pub culture to the Columbia area. 

Current Promotions / Specials:
Cold pints, great company, and all the Irish cheer you can handle all weekend.  Don’t miss the fun! Sláinte!

Website & Social:
https://thebritishbulldogpub.com | https://www.instagram.com/thebritishbulldogpub | https://www.facebook.com/thebritishbulldogpub

Why we love them:
If you want fish and chips, real ales, and a proper pub vibe, this place delivers. It feels like a neighborhood hangout where everyone is welcome.

Publick House

Who they are:
Publick House has been a Columbia neighborhood pub favorite since 1994, known for its draft beer selection, hearty comfort food, and relaxed gathering atmosphere in Five Points. 

Current Promotions / Specials:
Weekly Specials:
• Monday Burgers & Beer
• Wednesday Steak Night
• Sunday Irish Night with Irish food specials 

Website & Social:
https://www.publick-house.com | https://www.instagram.com/publickhousecolumbia | https://www.facebook.com/PublickHouseColumbia

Why we love them:
Classic pub food, cold beer, and a laid back vibe. It is the kind of place where you can grab wings, watch the game, and run into half the neighborhood.

Cock n’ Bull Pub (Columbia)

Who they are:
Cock n’ Bull Pub is a long standing Columbia pub known for casual drinks, friendly service, and a loyal local crowd. It is a simple neighborhood spot where people gather for conversation, sports, and a relaxed pub atmosphere.

Current Promotions / Specials:
Special St Patrick's Day menu along with a different traditional Irish plate each day until March 17th. 

Website & Social:
https://www.facebook.com/cocknbullpubcolumbia/

Why we love them:
Every city has a pub where everybody knows somebody. Cock n’ Bull feels like that kind of place. No fuss, just good people and a cold drink.  Get the fish and chips!

🍀 As the Midlands turns green each March, St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect excuse to explore the local pubs, restaurants, and events that make our community so much fun. From a full day of music and celebration at St. Pat’s in Five Points to grabbing a pint at a neighborhood pub with friends, Columbia and Lexington know how to celebrate in style. However you plan to mark the holiday, we hope this guide helps you discover a few great local spots along the way. Sláinte to good food, good company, and a St. Patrick’s Day well spent right here in our community. 🍀