Explore a St. Patrick's Day celebration unlike any other in the state at O'Neill's annual festivities. Proudly acknowledged as the Irish Capital of Nebraska, O'Neill, founded by an Irish native, received the Irish Capital title from the governor in 1969. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this designation at the Holt County Historical Society Museum. Each year, the town hosts a vibrant St. Patrick’s Day Celebration featuring engaging events like the Mr. Irish Pageant, a lively parade, captivating Irish dancers, live music, and more. The celebration unfolds each year the week of St. Patrick’s Day.

Whether you’re participating in O’Neill’s Celebration or not, there’s plenty of activities to get you in the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day. Here are seven ways to celebrate the holiday in the Irish Capital of Nebraska:

1. O’Neill proudly boasts the world's largest shamrock, a title it has claimed for itself. Situated at the intersection of Highways 20 and 281, right in front of the Historic Golden Hotel, this colossal painted shamrock stands as an enduring symbol in the community. Annually, the green giant undergoes a rejuvenating transformation with a fresh coat of paint during the Painting of the Shamrock event, a cherished tradition at the celebration.
2. Witness the grace of Irish dancers as they perform at the heart of the world's largest shamrock in downtown O'Neill. Then, stay for the St. Patrick's Day grand parade that follows.
3. Capture a memorable moment by the "O'Neill, Irish Capital of Nebraska" Historical Marker, situated at the Holt County Courthouse. Take a snapshot to commemorate your visit to this Celtic site.
4. Craving more green? Immerse yourself in the lush atmosphere by attending the Greening of the Pond at the Gil Poese Recreation Area in Carney Park, and don't miss out on the vibrant Painting of the Green Horse event just north of O'Neill.
5. Ensure you don't go hungry during the holiday celebrations. Enjoy holiday-inspired dishes such as a Reuben sandwich at the O'Neill Community Center or partake in the Old Fashioned Irish Spudfest at the Assembly of God Church. 
6. Afterward, quench your thirst with a refreshing green mule at Handlebend—an all-encompassing establishment with a coffee shop, taproom, coppershop, and twig flower and gift shop, conveniently located just around the corner from Joy Boutique.
7. Immerse yourself in the greenery of St. Patrick's Day by choosing vibrant plants from Shamrock Nursery, a delightful family-owned greenhouse in O'Neill.

Travelers can get more information about the event by visiting the Holt County Visitors Center at the O'Neill Historic Depot Building. Overnight lodging can be booked at Carriage House Motel, Holiday Inn Express and the Historic Golden Hotel.