From what to wear to the best pours: The ultimate guide to St Patrick’s Day in Glasgow

Featuring Jedward, pints, and plenty of craic!


St Patrick’s Day is almost here, and whether you’re Irish or just Irish for the day, Glasgow is one of the best places to celebrate. From pints of Guinness to rowdy singalongs, the city is packed with events to get you in the spirit.

So, here’s a guide to (hopefully) answer all the questions you might have about celebrating in Glasgow.

Where to go

GUU (A Student Favourite)

If you’re a student (or just love a student-priced drink), GUU is a great shout for St Patrick’s Day. With cheap pints and St Paddy’s pints of fun, themed events, and a buzzing atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to celebrate without breaking the bank. Expect plenty of dancing, questionable Guinness consumption, and a solid chance of a green pint of fun to be spilt on you.

Malones (The Classic Choice)

If you’re after a proper Irish pub experience, Malones is the place to be. Expect live music, a sea of green, and plenty of Guinness. This is where you’ll find an atmosphere as close to Temple Bar as you’ll get in Scotland. It will be busy, but that’s all part of the fun.

Waxy O’Connor’s (The Traditional One)

Waxy’s is a labyrinthine, cosy pub with multiple floors, making it a great spot to soak up some St Paddy’s vibes. They always go all out for the day, so expect Irish dancers, live folk music, and of course, a well-poured pint.

Kitty O’Shea’s (The Party Spot)

If you’re looking for a lively crowd and a place to belt out The Fields of Athenry at 1am, Kitty O’Shea’s is your best bet. It’s a smaller venue, but what it lacks in space, it makes up for in energy.

The Main Event in Glasgow: Jedward

What’s better than celebrating St Patrick’s Day in Glasgow? Celebrating it with Jedward. The iconic Irish duo are gracing the city with their presence, and honestly, what could be more fitting? Making an appearance at Oran Mor on Sunday and Polo on Monday, expect chaotic energy, glitter, and plenty of nostalgic bangers, and half The Glasgow Tab team in the queue at Polo.

Where to get the best Guinness

  • The Laurieston – An old-school pub with one of the best pints in Glasgow.
  • The Pot Still – More known for whisky, but their Guinness is top-tier too.
  • Sloans – A hidden gem for those wanting a quieter pint in the city centre.

Food to line your Stomach

  • Paesano Pizza – Because you can never go wrong with a pizza before a long night of drinking.
  • 727 – A Glasgow Uni students classic for a late-night munch.
  • Platform at The Arches – A solid shout for street food options before heading out.

What to wear

Green is mandatory. Bonus points for leprechaun hats, shamrock accessories, or even full-on fancy dress. And if you somehow manage to get your hands on a Jedward-themed outfit, you deserve free drinks all night.

Final tips

  • Pace yourself – It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
  • Expect queues – The Irish bars will be packed, and the queue for GUU last year was long in the morning, so patience is key.
  • Learn some Irish songs – You’ll thank yourself later.
  • Be nice – No one likes an overly aggressive Guinness-fuelled warrior.
  • Prepare for the Tuesday hangover – Gather some hydration tablets, lots of water and your favourite hangover food for the morning after.

So, there you have it – your ultimate guide to St Patrick’s Day in Glasgow. Whether you’re chasing the best pint, dancing to live music, or following Jedward’s every move, it’s going to be a day (and night, or even weekend) to remember.