St. Patrick’s Day at Doherty’s: Our Favorite Tradition

When we first opened our doors, we knew St. Patrick’s Day would be special. That first celebration was small but mighty, a band, trays of Irish food flying out of the kitchen, and a pub packed shoulder-to-shoulder with people raising pints. Even back then, you could feel it...this was more than a party. It was going to become a Doherty’s tradition.

St. Patrick’s Day at Doherty’s isn’t just about wearing green (though you’ll see plenty of that). It’s about tradition. Year after year, the parties got bigger. We added tents and outdoor bars to make room for the crowds. The music lineup grew from a single act to a full day of bands, dancers, and bagpipes. Our kitchens roll out the classics - corned beef, shepherd’s pie, fish and chips - while the bar keeps the Guinness, whiskey, and Leprechaun Punch flowing.

And what started as one packed pub grew into three bustling celebrations in Cary, Apex, and Pittsboro with Holly Springs joining in soon!

Now, St. Patrick’s Day at Doherty’s is a full-scale celebration across all our pubs. We throw two parties every year, one on the day itself, and another on the Saturday right after the Raleigh St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Each location has its own flavor, but you’ll find the same essentials everywhere. Live music, Irish dancers, bagpipes, and Guinness poured the way it’s meant to be.

From families filling tables to friends closing down the tent late at night, the energy is nonstop. Step inside and the pub is buzzing, head outside and you’ll find tents, lounge chairs (bring your favorite outdoor chairs to the parking lot party!), laughter, and a stage full of Irish entertainment.

Of course, once a year just isn’t enough. That’s why every September we celebrate Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day at our Apex location. It’s a bonus round of Irish food, music, and pints that keeps the spirit alive and gives everyone another excuse to gather. Think of it as a warm-up for March...or just another great reason to party.

Over the years, our St. Patrick’s Day parties have grown into something people plan for months in advance. Friends meet up early to grab a pint, families come for lunch, and by night the place is alive with energy. Whether it’s your first St. Patrick’s Day with us or your tenth, we promise it’s a celebration you won’t forget. So when March 17th comes around, you know where to find us raising a glass, playing the music, and throwing the kind of party that keeps people coming back year after year.

Sláinte! ☘️