Public Notice: St. Patrick’s Day Parade Route Changes and City Safety Advisories

Official St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Traffic Advisory

The City of Boston has issued comprehensive notices regarding the annual St. Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day Parade scheduled for Sunday, March 15, 2026. This year, the parade will follow a 'reverse' historical route, beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Andrew Square. Attendees are advised that the earlier start time is intended to ensure a family-friendly environment and manage crowd flow more effectively throughout South Boston.

Parade Route and Security Protocols

The 2026 parade will proceed from Andrew Square up Dorchester Street, turning right onto Telegraph Street and traveling around Thomas Park. The route continues left on G Street, right on East 6th Street, left on K Street, right on East 4th Street, and left on P Street. It will then follow East Broadway to West Broadway, concluding at A Street. The Boston Police Department reminds the public of the following security measures:

• Large bags, backpacks, and coolers are strictly prohibited along the parade route.
• Open containers of alcohol are not permitted and will be confiscated by law enforcement.
• Public urination and indecent attire will be met with a zero-tolerance policy.

Parking Restrictions and Towing

Parking bans and towing operations are set to begin at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 15. Residents and visitors should avoid parking on Dorchester Avenue, West Broadway, East Broadway, and adjacent streets. To accommodate South Boston residents with valid stickers, the Marine Park Garage at 12 Drydock Ave will offer reduced-price parking from Saturday evening through Sunday at 8:00 p.m. Additionally, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) will allow resident parking at the Castle Island lot during the event window.

Public Transportation and MBTA Detours

The MBTA is providing a free shuttle bus service between South Station and South Boston from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. Due to expected heavy crowds, Red Line trains may bypass Broadway Station periodically. Bus routes 9, 10, 11, 16, and 47 will be detoured around the South Boston area beginning at 9:45 a.m. Commuters are encouraged to check the live transit app for real-time updates.

Upcoming City Council and Public Health Notices

The Boston City Council has scheduled two public hearings for Monday, March 16, 2026. The Committee on City Services will meet at 10:00 a.m., followed by a joint hearing on transportation and planning at 2:00 p.m. at City Hall. Residents interested in health equity can now access the Boston Public Health Commission’s newly released Black Life Expectancy Report, which outlines initiatives for the upcoming Black Men’s Health Activation Summit later this year.