Key Points
- The Old Crown, Digbeth’s oldest pub, confirms no St Patrick’s Parade in 2026 due to safety concerns.
- The pub will host two weeks of Irish-led events instead, from March 6 to March 19.
- Events include Peaky Blinders party, live performances by The Commitments, and St Patrick’s Day trad sessions.
- This follows the 2025 parade cancellation, marking another challenge for Birmingham’s Irish Quarter.
Birmingham (Birmingham Express) January 29, 2026 – The future of The Old Crown pub in Digbeth has been secured with a shift from the traditional St Patrick’s Parade to an extensive programme of Irish-themed events.
The announcement ensures the venue’s vibrancy amid the absence of the annual parade, which organisers deemed unsafe for 2026. Digbeth remains the historic heart of Birmingham’s Irish heritage, with the pub committing to a grand celebration.
What is replacing Birmingham’s St Patrick’s Parade?
The Old Crown has planned a two-week series of events starting Friday, March 6, featuring a Peaky Blinders-themed party, an evening with former Irish footballers Andy Townsend and Ray Houghton on March 11, and live performances by Robert Arkins’ The Commitments on March 13 and 14.
As reported by Secret Birmingham, the schedule continues with a ‘Parade Day’ party on March 15 including live Irish bands and DJs, The Tumbling Paddies at Luna Springs, St Patrick’s Day trad sessions with Fin Furey and Bang On The Ear on March 17, and Catchphrase with Roy Walker on March 19. The full roster will release later this month.
Why was the 2026 parade cancelled?
Organisers cancelled the St Patrick’s Parade in 2025 at the last minute, stating they could not deliver a safe and successful event and refused to compromise on attendee safety. No official word has come from the Birmingham Irish Association on the 2026 decision.
What challenges face Birmingham’s Irish Quarter?
This marks another blow to the Irish Quarter following last year’s cancellation. General Manager Matt Deakin expressed sadness over the parade’s absence but affirmed commitment to marking the occasion at The Old Crown, Digbeth’s oldest pub.
What does this mean for the pub’s future?
The shift to hosted events confirms the pub’s ongoing role in Birmingham’s cultural scene, adapting to parade uncertainties while preserving Irish traditions. A full events list will provide further details for visitors.
The Old Crown’s initiative underscores resilience in the local hospitality sector amid broader pub pressures.
