Thinking about spending St. Patrick’s Day in New York? You really have to get ready for weather that sometimes feels like winter, and sometimes hints at spring. Most years, highs hover near 50°F and lows dip to about 35°F on March 17. That’s a pretty wide range, honestly, and it makes this holiday one of the trickier ones to predict—but maybe that’s part of the fun.
Some years, you’ll luck out with a mild afternoon in the 60s. Other times, you’ll end up bundled up against biting winds or even a random snow shower. Rain doesn’t show up for the parade more than half the time, but you never know. Keeping these patterns in mind helps you figure out what to wear, what to pack, and how to enjoy the city’s events without getting caught off guard.
If you check out the typical conditions and look at long-term trends, you’ll get a decent idea of what to expect. Armed with that info, you can make smarter choices about your clothes, travel, and even your parade-watching spot.
Typical Weather Conditions on St. Patrick’s Day
March 17 in New York City usually brings cool air, and the vibe can flip from late-winter chill to early spring—sometimes in the same day. You might wake up to a brisk morning, enjoy a mild afternoon, or deal with damp, breezy weather, depending on the year.
Average High and Low Temperatures
On St. Patrick’s Day, the average high temperature usually sits in the upper 40s (°F). The average low lands in the mid-30s (°F). You’ll want a jacket or coat, especially if you’re spending time outside.
Weather records show a pretty big spread. The warmest March 17 hit the low 80s (°F), while the coldest highs barely got out of the teens. Nighttime lows have even dropped into the single digits on rare occasions.
March is a transitional month, so you should expect some unpredictability. Some years, you’ll get that almost-spring warmth, and other years, it’ll feel like you’re still in the depths of winter. Dressing in layers is your best bet since temperatures can jump or drop between morning and afternoon.
Precipitation Patterns
Rain shows up fairly often on St. Patrick’s Day in New York City. Precipitation totals for the date average around 0.1 to 0.2 inches, but sometimes it rains a lot more. In the wettest years, the city has gotten over an inch of rain.
Usually, you’ll see light showers or drizzle rather than a full-on downpour. Still, a few parades have faced steady rain, so umbrellas and waterproof gear come in handy if you’re planning to watch events outside.
March winds can be pretty persistent in New York. They add a chill to damp days, especially when temperatures hover in the 40s. Wet weather can easily feel colder than the numbers suggest.
Frequency of Snow and Rain
Snow can happen on March 17, but it’s not the norm. Records show that measurable snow has fallen some years, but it’s far less common than rain. When it does snow, it’s usually light—under an inch—and tends to melt quickly in the city.
Rain is more likely. About 4 out of 10 years see at least some precipitation, and most of the time it’s rain, not snow.
If you’re heading to the parade or spending time outdoors, expect damp conditions more than wintry ones. But you never know—New York has seen both extremes in past decades.
Historical Weather Trends for March 17
March 17 in New York City has seen everything from mild, spring-like afternoons to cold, damp days with snow or rain. Records show plenty of extremes, but over time, you can spot some patterns in temperature swings and gradual changes in climate.
Notable Weather Events
March 17 has definitely delivered some memorable weather in New York City. Since 1876, rain has fallen on the parade about 47 times and snow around 10 times. So, most years are dry, but precipitation isn’t exactly rare.
Every once in a while, the city gets a taste of summer. The temperature has hit 70°F or higher only three times, twice in a row in 1989 and 1990. On the flip side, bitter cold has sometimes taken over, with lows well below freezing.
These outlier years matter because they show just how unpredictable mid-March can be. Most years stick close to the usual averages, but you might need anything from a winter coat to a lighter jacket if you’re attending outdoor events.
Temperature Fluctuations Over the Years
Daily averages for March 17 in New York City sit around 50°F for the high and 35°F for the low. Still, temperatures have swung wildly from year to year.
Some years, it feels like winter with highs stuck in the 30s. Other years, it feels like spring with readings in the 60s. This spread really shows how March acts as a bridge between winter and spring.
You can see the variability in records showing both near-freezing highs and sudden warm spells. You can’t count on a consistent pattern, but you can expect the weather to match the season’s changing mood.
Long-Term Climate Changes
If you look at the bigger climate picture, you’ll spot a gradual warming trend. Since the 1970s, March 17 in New York City has leaned warmer more often than cooler when compared to the long-term average.
Above-average years have become more common, and mild conditions show up more frequently. Cold snaps and snow can still happen, but they’re less frequent than they used to be.
This shift matches the broader warming trend across the Northeast. For you, it means that while the day can still feel chilly, you’re a bit more likely to get milder weather for future St. Patrick’s Days.
What to Wear and Pack for St. Patrick’s Day in New York
Weather in mid-March can change quickly in New York. You might face chilly mornings, damp afternoons, and breezy evenings. Your clothes and gear should help you handle layers, comfort, and long hours outside.
Recommended Clothing
Daytime temperatures usually range from the low 40s to mid-50s °F, so layering is the way to go. Start with a light base layer—a long-sleeve cotton or thermal shirt works. Add a sweater or fleece, then top it off with a medium-weight jacket.
A water-resistant coat is a smart move since light rain isn’t rare. Pick one with a hood so you don’t have to juggle an umbrella in crowded spots.
For pants, dark jeans or thicker trousers work great. If you like lighter fabrics, just add leggings or tights underneath. Try to avoid bulky clothes since you’ll probably be moving between indoor pubs and outdoor events.
A bit of green helps you fit in with the festivities. Maybe a scarf, sweater, or jacket accent. Pick something you’ll wear again instead of a one-time novelty.
Essential Accessories
Accessories can really make a difference between being comfortable and being stuck. Bring a scarf, hat, and gloves—even if you don’t need them all day, March winds can cut through you, especially near the parade.
A small crossbody bag or backpack is handy for carrying layers, water, and your stuff. Go for something secure and lightweight since you’ll be in crowds.
Don’t forget sunglasses. Even on cool days, sunlight bouncing off buildings can be intense. If you’re staying out into the evening, a portable charger keeps your phone alive for maps and photos.
If you want to add some festive flair, simple green jewelry, a pin, or socks are easy to slip on. Oversized costumes might sound fun, but they get uncomfortable in tight spaces.
Footwear Tips
You’ll probably walk a lot, so comfort should guide your shoe choice. Supportive sneakers, walking shoes, or low boots work best. Skip brand-new shoes—they’ll just give you blisters.
Waterproofing matters. Sidewalks might be wet from rain or melting snow. Leather boots with rubber soles or waterproof sneakers will keep your feet dry.
If you’re planning to stand for hours at the parade, cushioned insoles help fight off foot fatigue. Pair your shoes with warm socks, preferably wool or a wool blend, to keep your feet cozy.
High heels or thin-soled shoes are a no-go. City streets can be uneven, and you might need to move quickly through crowds. Durable, weather-ready footwear makes the day a lot more enjoyable.
How Weather Impacts St. Patrick’s Day Events
Weather really shapes how you experience St. Patrick’s Day in New York City. Cold winds, rain, or a random warm spell can all change how long you want to stay outside and what you end up doing.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Conditions
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade has marched on every year since the 18th century, rain or shine. Since it happens in mid-March, you should expect all kinds of weather. Sometimes, highs reach the 70s, but more often, you’ll see temperatures in the 40s or 50s.
Cold snaps happen a lot. You might need a winter coat, gloves, and a hat if the wind picks up. Milder years let you get away with lighter jackets or even a sweater. Rain doesn’t show up often, but it can, so umbrellas and waterproof shoes are a good idea if the forecast looks wet.
Crowd size depends a lot on the weather. Warm years bring out bigger crowds, while cold or rainy days mean people don’t stick around as long. If you plan your clothes and timing around the forecast, you’ll have a better parade experience.
Outdoor Activities and Celebrations
Street festivals, pub crawls, and family outings all hinge on the day’s weather. If temperatures are average, you’ll get brisk but manageable conditions for walking, eating outside, or hanging out in parks. Warmer years mean more sidewalk seating and longer outdoor hangs.
Snow is rare in March, but it has happened. Even light snow can make sidewalks slippery and keep people indoors. Rain is a bigger concern, since it can cancel smaller events or force them inside.
When you’re planning your day, think about three main things:
- Temperature: could be chilly 30s or mild 60s.
- Precipitation: occasional light rain; heavy storms don’t happen often.
- Wind: March winds can make it feel colder than it actually is.
If you’re ready for these variables, you’ll have a much better time at the city’s celebrations.
Travel Tips for March Weather in New York
March in New York can bring chilly mornings, damp afternoons, and the chance for both rain and snow. You’ll need to plan for quick shifts in weather and think about how those conditions affect getting around.
Navigating the City in Variable Weather
March temperatures usually range from the mid-30s °F at night to the upper 40s or low 50s °F during the day. Rain falls on about 12 days in the month, and snow is still possible, especially early on. That means you should expect wet streets and sometimes slush.
Wear water-resistant shoes with decent traction since sidewalks can get slippery. A light but warm jacket, layered clothes, and a compact umbrella help you deal with sudden changes. Gloves and a hat are useful in the morning, while a lighter layer might be enough by the afternoon.
If you’re walking a lot, plan some indoor stops—museums, coffee shops, or stores—to break up your time outside. That way, you can warm up and avoid staying in damp clothes for too long.
Transportation Considerations
March weather can really slow down travel across the city. Rain or snow might make subway stairs slippery, and bus routes sometimes run late.
If you’re heading to big events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, you’ll want to give yourself extra time to get around.
The subway usually offers the most reliable way to get places, but those platforms can feel colder than the street. I’d recommend carrying a small foldable umbrella, especially for those transfers between stations.
For short trips, walking often beats taxis when traffic gets bad, but with wet sidewalks, sturdy shoes are a must. Rideshares? Well, expect longer waits and higher prices during storms or parades, since demand jumps fast.
Comparing St. Patrick’s Day Weather to Other Times in March
March in New York loves to keep you guessing. Some mornings feel like the dead of winter, but you might get lucky with a milder afternoon that hints at spring.
Early March Versus Mid-March
Early March usually brings colder days. Highs hover in the mid-40s °F, and lows can drop into the upper 20s or low 30s. Snow still shows up now and then, so you can’t rule it out.
By mid-March, around St. Patrick’s Day, things warm up a little. The average high hits about 50°F, and lows settle near 35°F, at least if you go by Central Park numbers. You’ll probably see more rain than snow, but honestly, either one can happen.
Early March days tend to feel shorter and a bit gloomier. By the middle of the month, you get about 30 more minutes of daylight, which helps. The extra light and slightly warmer air make outdoor events like the parade a bit easier to handle, even if the weather still decides to surprise you.
Late March Weather Differences
Late March usually feels pretty different from mid-March. Average highs climb into the mid-50s °F, and lows sit closer to 40°F.
The chance for snow drops sharply, and light to moderate rain takes over as the main type of precipitation.
You’ll probably spot stronger hints of spring around this time. Trees start budding, and daytime stretches out, which means you get more daylight for whatever you want to do outside.
Mornings can still feel chilly, but afternoons turn mild enough that you might ditch the heavy coat for a lighter jacket.
Compared to St. Patrick’s Day, late March brings a lower risk of wintry weather. Still, unsettled conditions pop up a lot, and the weather can flip from sunny to rainy pretty fast.