We all know that even if you're not Irish, you still celebrate St. Patrick's Day in some form. Weather you're hitting the pubs, or go to the annual parade in your town. But ask anyone from the Boston area, and they'll tell you the only and best way to celebrate is to go to the South Boston parade.

1. It's one of the oldest parades around

Boston is a city with history pretty much on every corner. The St. Patrick's Day parade is another historic event that Boston takes great pride in. Back during the Revolutionary War, British soldiers spotted American soldiers in the Dorchester Heights pushing what looked like cannons. The safe word to pass the continental lines was "St. Patrick." And the rest was history. Ever since, South Boston has been the host of one the biggest St. Patrick's Day parades.

2. P.S. Deli

We all know that P.S. Deli is home to some of the best coffee around. Going to the parade is just another reason to grab a coffee before the festivities begin. I mean, did you really go to Southie if you didn't get P.S.?

3. Free Entertainment

The catch phrase for St. Patrick's day is "Keep calm and drink on." Now take some of the best people, from the best town and have them be a little intoxicated, and ladies and gentlemen you have a show. You could sit on the sidewalk and just watch all the people, and I guarantee you'll be laughing the whole time. Boston just does everything better, even being drunk.

4. The Atmosphere

From all those friends you make on the street that you'll probably never see again, to the people in the parade, the atmosphere is indescribable. You meet people you stand next to you for the first time, but act like you guys are best friends. That sound of the bagpipes echoing through the streets. The pride and respect that everyone has for our men in women in uniform. You only get it if you've experienced it.

5. Southie does St. Patrick's Day justice

Sometimes people lose the meaning behind holidays, but not Southie. Southie gives Boston a reason to celebrate. Rain or shine, you bet that there will still be streets lined with people from Broadway Station to Dorchester Hill. Not everyone is fortunate enough to be Irish, but on St. Patrick's Day in Southie, everyone is.