In the heart of Rawdon, the Festival Saint-Patrick has established itself as the municipality's flagship event, proudly hosting one of the largest parades in Quebec. The three-day festival has been a resounding success in recent years, reinforcing the determination to spread this cultural tradition throughout the Lanaudière region.
Here's what to expect this year as you experience the magic of St. Patrick's Festival for the 47th time.
A VARIETY OF EVENTS FOR ALL TASTES FROM MARCH 14-16
The festival program kicks off on March 14 with an invitation to discover an Irish meal at Gordie's at Rawdon Golf Resort. Sample corned beef in an atmosphere enlivened by an electrifying performance by the talented Dwane Dixon. In the evening, traditional Rawdon dancing takes center stage at the Centre d'interprétation multiethnique. Whether you're familiar with the dance or would like to try your hand at it, come and enjoy an evening of traditional music and Rawdon square dancing, a combination of Irish, Scottish, English and French origins. Finally, a festive evening awaits you in one of our partner restaurants and bars.
On Saturday, March 15, take advantage of the St. Patrick's Day Brunch at Privilège Restaurant & Bar at Rawdon Golf Resort and head down to La Pente verte at Ski Montcalm dressed in your best Irish attire. With family or friends, hit the slopes, reach the top of the mountain and enjoy snowshoeing with promo code STPAT2025, which gives you 17% off all activities and equipment rentals at Ski Montcalm! Many surprises and fun competitions await you.
In the mornings, the Alice-Quintal Library presents a story time with elves and leprechauns. You can also stop by the Multi-Ethnic Interpretation Center to see the exhibition La présence irlandaise à Rawdon d'hier à aujourd'hui. This exhibition tells the story of the Irish immigrants who helped found and develop Rawdon in the 19th century. In the evening, Celtic Rhythms will lull you to the sounds of Irish folklore with Rawdon's Green Fir Choir and surprise you with a concert inspired by Scandinavian, Celtic and Québécois traditions in the warm setting of Marie-Reine du Monde and Saint-Patrick Church. To round off the day, the festive evenings will continue: come and taste the themed cocktails specially created for the occasion.
The festivities culminate on Sunday, March 16 with a full day of family activities on Queen Street between 4th and 6th Avenues. Explore Rawdon Market, take part in a parent-child creative duo workshop and watch the parade starting at 2 p.m. The parade starts at City Beach, travels down Queen Street and ends at Church Street. Don't miss the closing show by JoshUa2, North America's most famous U2 tribute, who will ignite the crowd with passion. The celebration continues after the parade at Privilège Restaurant & Bar.
LITTLE EXTRAS TO ENHANCE THE EVENT
Beginning in early March, you can get into the festive spirit by donning exclusive promotional items: sweaters, toques, jerseys and beers proudly bearing the Festival colors and logo. Available in many stores in and around Rawdon, they'll help you celebrate the festival with style and enthusiasm! A reusable glass will also be available on site.
What's more, the council is honored to be able to demonstrate its commitment to an environmentally friendly St. Patrick's Festival, particularly through the installation of waste sorting stations at several locations on the site. The Festi-bus (the Festival's official shuttle bus) will also make its debut to help alleviate traffic congestion on Queen Street. A bike station and park and ride lots will also be available to help you plan your travels. Several food vendors will be on site, and the Green Zone near City Hall will offer cocktails and Irish coffee.
For full details of the festival program, visit www.rawdon.ca.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to join in the festivities and celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Rawdon from March 14 to 16!
