At 10,158 feet, Leadville is one of the highest towns in the U.S., rich in Irish history and mining heritage—perfect for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration with grit, gold, and Guinness!

St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration, camaraderie, and raising a pint—but in Colorado, the holiday has deeper roots than just parades and green beer. The Irish played a vital role in shaping Colorado’s history, from its early mining days to its thriving communities today. While Boulder and Denver now host some of the best St. Paddy’s Day celebrations in the state, the real story of the Irish in Colorado goes far beyond one festive day.

From the Emerald Isle to the Rocky Mountains: Early Irish Settlers

The Irish began arriving in Colorado in the mid-1800s, drawn by the promise of gold, silver, and opportunity. Many had fled Ireland due to the Great Famine (1845-1852), seeking a new life in America. Some traveled west after working on the Transcontinental Railroad, while others came directly to the booming mining towns of Leadville, Central City, and Cripple Creek.

Central City, Colorado—once the “Richest Square Mile on Earth,” this historic mining town sits at 8,510 feet, preserving its gold rush charm and deep-rooted Irish heritage

By the late 19th century, these towns had some of the largest Irish populations in the state. Most Irish workers found themselves deep underground in silver mines, enduring brutal conditions for the hope of prosperity. But while mining was their main trade, their impact extended far beyond the tunnels.

The Leadville Miners’ Strike of 1880: A Fight for Fair Wages

One of the most pivotal moments in Colorado’s Irish history was the Leadville Miners’ Strike of 1880. Irish miners, frustrated with low wages and dangerous working conditions, organized one of the first major labor strikes in Colorado history.

The strike was led largely by Irish immigrants demanding fair pay for their grueling labor. It ended in violence and arrests, but it paved the way for future labor rights movements in Colorado.

Today, Leadville’s Annunciation Church—built by Irish immigrants—still stands as a symbol of their resilience and faith. The church remains a gathering place for celebrations, including St. Patrick’s Day festivities that honor Leadville’s Irish heritage.

Leadville’s Annunciation Church, a historic landmark built by Irish immigrants, stands at 10,158 feet—one of the highest Catholic churches in the U.S. A lasting symbol of faith, resilience, and Colorado’s rich Irish heritage

Denver: A Hub for Irish Influence

As Colorado’s capital grew, so did its Irish population. The Irish settled in areas like Five Points and LoDo (Lower Downtown Denver), where they became police officers, firefighters, and political figures.

Denver also hosts one of the oldest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country, dating back to 1889. Today, it’s one of the largest parades west of the Mississippi, drawing over 450,000 spectators each year.

Denver’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade brings Irish spirit to the Mile High City! At 5,280 feet, it’s one of the largest celebrations in the West, honoring Colorado’s deep Irish heritage with music, dance, and plenty of green!

One of Denver’s most influential Irish immigrants was John K. Mullen, a businessman who helped build the city’s libraries, schools, and charities. His impact is still seen today, from the Mullen Home for the Aged to his contributions to Denver’s Catholic community.

Modern-Day Celebrations: Where to Enjoy St. Patrick’s Day in Colorado

While the days of Irish miners striking for fair wages are long past, Colorado still proudly celebrates its Irish heritage. St. Patrick’s Day is a major event across the state, with festivals, live music, and, of course, great beer.

If you’re looking for the best places to celebrate, here are some top spots to grab an authentic Irish beer and enjoy the festivities:

Boulder:

• The Hungry Toad – A British-style pub with a cozy, authentic atmosphere, great for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a pint.
• Sanitas Brewing – Known for creative craft brews, they often feature special releases around the holiday.
• Avery Brewing Co. – A Boulder favorite that has brewed Irish-style stouts and other specialty beers in the past.

Avery Brewing Company in Boulder, Colorado—crafting bold, innovative beers at 5,328 feet! A perfect spot to raise a pint this St. Patrick’s Day!

Denver:

• Scruffy Murphy’s – One of the best Irish pubs in Denver, featuring live music, Guinness, and a lively St. Paddy’s crowd.
• The Irish Rover – A classic Irish pub with a rooftop patio and a strong community vibe.

Colorado Springs:

• Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub – Known for pouring a perfect Guinness, hosting traditional Irish music, and serving hearty Irish fare.

Beyond the pubs, Gaelic sports like hurling and Gaelic football still have a presence in Colorado, keeping the Irish spirit alive through competition and camaraderie.

The Irish Legacy in Colorado: More Than Just a Holiday

Colorado’s Irish community helped build the state, influencing its labor laws, politics, and traditions. Their resilience, hard work, and cultural pride are woven into the fabric of Colorado’s history.

So, as St. Patrick’s Day approaches, take a moment to raise a pint to the Irish pioneers who shaped Colorado—not just with their shovels and sweat, but with their unyielding spirit and sense of community.

Whether you’re toasting at a pub in Boulder, watching the Denver parade, or exploring Leadville’s Irish past, remember: St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just about wearing green—it’s about honoring the Irish legacy that helped shape Colorado into what it is today.

Sláinte!

AboutBoulder-admin