Quebec City is where the first St. Patrick’s Day really started in Canada, with celebrations dating back to 1759, following the British conquest of New France. An official parade happens a week later than most other festivities. Of course anyone that knows anything about Canadian history we were not called Canadians until 1867. In some cities, notably Toronto and Montreal, large scale St. Patrick's Day parades are held, often on the Sunday closest to March 17. The parade in Montreal has been held every year since 1824. This year marks the 186th parade. In some places there are Irish cultural events. For instance, the Irish Association of Manitoba organizes a three-day festival of Irish culture in the week of St. Patrick's Day. People who have an Irish background or enjoy Irish culture may hold Irish themed parties and serve traditional dishes, such as Colcannon or Irish stew. Colcannon is a dish of mashed potatoes mixed with kale or cabbage and Irish stew is traditionally made with lamb and root vegetables.

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