O'Sullivan's Bars: Ireland's Stronghold in the Heart of Paris

If I mention Ireland, your first thoughts are probably of the Emerald Isle, Connemara lochs, Galway pubs, the Cliffs of Moher, or the Giant’s Causeway. You might also think of U2, Sinéad O’Connor, beer, rugby, and Gaelic football. When it comes to the atmosphere, the Irish know how to throw a party. Just attending a rugby match is enough to feel the collective celebration and lively spirit. And speaking of festivities, there's one that perfectly captures the Irish conviviality: St. Patrick’s Day. Over the years, it has become Ireland’s unofficial national holiday, and since 1903, March 17th has been a public holiday in the country.

Saint Patrick's Day 2026: Why Do We Celebrate This Festive Occasion on March 17th? History and Origins
March 17 is St. Patrick's Day, or "Paddy's Day" as it's known in Ireland. But what exactly is celebrated on this day, and why March 17? Here's a look back at the history and origins of St. Patrick's Day! [Read more]

In Paris, a single bar — or rather, five — offers the perfect immersion into all things Irish. You’ve probably guessed it: I’m talking about O’Sullivans bars. Over the years, this chain has become the go-to spot for both Irish expats and fans passing through the French capital. O’Sullivans boasts five locations across the City of Light: in Bastille, Châtelet, on the Grands Boulevards, and at Franklin D. Roosevelt. But the one that truly put the brand on the map is undoubtedly the bar in Pigalle, the O’Sullivans by the Mill. Located just a stone’s throw from the iconic Moulin Rouge, this pub is uniquely situated near several other pubs along boulevard de Clichy — a street that even made headlines on social media during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Like all other O’Sullivans pubs, the one in Pigalle hosts a variety of events throughout the year: match screenings, themed parties, and even St. Patrick’s Day celebrations! But this particular location, O’Sullivans by The Mill, has a unique feature: it includes a live music venue. The Backstage BTM (By The Mill), formerly known as the MCM Café, has hosted acts like Placebo, FFF, Matmatah, Muse, Archive, and Nada Surf in its history, especially during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

The O’Sullivans by The Mill bar is set to be a key gathering spot for all Irish visitors during the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

• To be read
• Saint Patrick 2025: Ireland Week returns to the 6th arrondissement
• Saint Patrick's Day 2026: Why Do We Celebrate This Festive Occasion on March 17th? History and Origins
• Saint Patrick’s Day 2026: Why Do We Wear Green on March 17th?

In the meantime, the bar is gearing up to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day on March 17th with a live performance by the acoustic duo Fifty/Fifty. Check out the full program here. To experience the lively, festive spirit of the Irish right here in Paris, head over to the O’Sullivans bars!

To learn more about St. Patrick's Day:

Saint Patrick’s Day 2026: Why Do We Wear Green on March 17th?
Every March 17th, the Irish don their green attire to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style. But do you know why this particular color has become so closely tied to the festivities? Here’s the story. [Read more]

Saint Patrick's Day 2026: Celebrate with this year's lineup of events and activities across Paris and Île-de-France
St. Patrick’s Day is making its return to Paris just like everywhere else, on March 17, 2026. To ensure you have an unforgettable evening with friends, check out the top spots and insider tips to celebrate in the French capital! [Read more]

Saint Patrick 2025: Ireland Week returns to the 6th arrondissement
The rich and beautiful culture of Ireland comes to Paris from March 8 to 18, 2025 for Ireland Week. What's on the program? Art, cinema, music... So, are you ready to embark on a week-long discovery of the culture of the Emerald Isle? [Read more]

Saint Patrick’s Day 2026 in Paris: The Musical Lineup at the Irish Cultural Center
St. Patrick’s Day is making a comeback at the Irish Cultural Centre in Paris with a lineup of must-attend events throughout March 2026. What's on offer? Live traditional Irish music performances featuring artists like Éna Brennan, Seán Mac Erlaine & Caoimhin O Raghallaigh, as well as Boxing Banjo. Check out the musical schedule! [Read more]

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