On St Patrick's Day you need three things: a green outfit, cold Guinness and a lively Irish atmosphere in which to drink it.
To be sure the best of the latter is found in Ireland, but if you wind up celebrating in Australia, here are the best Australian pubs for tapping into the local Paddy spirit.
Sydney
The Wild Rover - Surry Hills
This cosy Surry Hills watering hole is packing Guinness gravy, whiskey-based cocktails and $1 oysters into the big day. Throw in $6 Guinness and Jameson before 6pm and we might've finally found that pot of gold.
The Hero of Waterloo Hotel - The Rocks
With a reputation for the best Guinness in Sydney, The Hero of Waterloo Hotel already has the basics covered. Traditional Irish stew, $25 Irish brekkie with complimentary drink, and live music from 9am until late leaves us thinking you're in for a classic Patty's Day boozing.
With six bars, including authentic Irish pub with antique decorations, The Fiddler is all about good food and indulgent drinking. St Patrick's Day sees the place don its true colours with live music from midday, Irish dancing and enough Guinness to fill Lake Eyre.
The Glenmore - The Rocks
A pop-up Guinness bar on the roof, sumptuous Irish fare and traditional music (bagpipes included) contribute to the lively atmosphere at The Glenny. The Sydney Harbour views are just a bonus.
Sydney's popular backpacker bar goes the full Paddy on the 17th with live music from 10am, giveaways, Guinness draught and a young and rambunctious crowd. Head down to The Vault Nightclub later on to keep the party rolling.
Melbourne
Dan O'Connell Hotel - Carlton
Considered one of the biggest St Patrick's Day celebrations in Melbourne, the Dan O'Connell is experienced at putting on a show. With rockers The Go Set headlining, Irish dancers, generous food and even more beer, The Dan is set for another ripper. It all starts at 7am with a traditional breakfast.
The Quiet Man - Flemington
The Quiet Man's street festival is a beloved party with food carts, live music and Celtic acts, pop-up bars and dancing. If the sun starts scorching your Irish skin, head inside for more bands, a beer garden and delicious eats.
The only Aussie bar to make the '10 Best Irish Pubs In the World (Outside Ireland)' list by the Irish Times, the Drunken Poet is a true Paddy drinking den. Find all your favourite Irish beers on tap, along with live bands including the Kraken Folk Session, Dan Bourke and Cyril Moran.
The Celtic Club - CBD
The day kicks off at 12pm with music, traditional cuisine in the Shamrock Restaurant, best-dressed prizes (remember your pipe!) and more giveaways throughout the day. Australia's first Irish club won't be holding back on the craic.
The Limerick Arms - South Melbourne
If you're more tight with your gold than a leprechaun, head to The Limerick Arms for $5 happy hour from 4pm to 6pm and $10 Guinness specials all day.
One venue that's sure to be packed to bursting with locals and tourists alike on St Patrick's Day is Mick O'Malley's. The underground bar has stocked its coffers with Guinness and Kilkenny, and will be rolling out a line-up of very Irish live tunes.
Pig 'N' Whistle - Riverside
Entertainment will abound at 'the Pig' come 17 March. Irish dancers, pipers and guitarists will be accompanied by Guinness specials and the popular steak & Guinness pie.
Irish Murphy's - CBD
You've got to commend that Irish stamina. Thursday will be a late one for Irish Murphy's. With cover bands from 6pm and DJ Craic'n playing until 5am, there's ample time to take advantage of the drink and dinner specials.
Usually closed on Thursdays, The Skye Bar will throw its doors open for St Patty's Day shenanigans on the 17th. Classic fare, dancing, welly tossing and live entertainment make up most of the proceedings.
Crown Perth - Burswood
An unexpected addition to this year's festivities, Crown Perth has two bars – The Merrywell and Groove Bar & Lounge – where revellers can grab a pint of Guinness with a free hat. There will also be giveaways and plenty of opportunities to test the luck of the Irish.
Visit your local Flight Centre store or call 131 600 for more advice and the latest deals.
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