Atlantic City Sees Booming Weekend with Boxing, Leprechauns, and Rod Stewart

The World's Playground hosted a diverse array of events that generated millions in economic activity.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Atlantic City, New Jersey experienced a bustling and economically successful weekend, with a record-setting St. Patrick's Day Boardwalk Parade, a professional boxing card at the Tropicana, a Rod Stewart concert at the Hard Rock Casino Hotel, and a variety of activities at Resorts Casino Hotel. The city was packed with visitors, generating an estimated $5 million in economic spend from the parade alone.

Why it matters

This weekend's events highlight Atlantic City's ongoing revitalization efforts, as the city works to diversify its entertainment offerings and attract visitors beyond just its casino industry. The successful hosting of these varied events suggests the city is making progress in becoming a more well-rounded destination.

The details

The St. Patrick's Day Boardwalk Parade featured over 120 groups, including many of the Atlantic City casinos, and stretched for a mile along the boardwalk. In addition to the parade, a professional boxing card took place at the Tropicana Atlantic City, while legendary musician Rod Stewart performed at the Hard Rock Casino Hotel. Resorts Casino Hotel also hosted a variety of activities throughout the weekend.

  • The St. Patrick's Day Boardwalk Parade took place on March 6, 2026.
  • The professional boxing card at the Tropicana Atlantic City occurred on March 7, 2026.
  • Rod Stewart performed at the Hard Rock Casino Hotel on March 7, 2026.

The players

Marty Small

The mayor of Atlantic City who has re-dedicated efforts to support diversified events in the city.

Dennis Levinson

The Atlantic County Executive who was spotted at Tony's Baltimore Grill during the busy weekend.

Larry Goldberg

The organizer of the professional boxing card at the Tropicana Atlantic City.

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What they’re saying

“Atlantic City, New Jersey is back. What an incredible weekend of diverse events — which brought significant economic spend to The World's Playground this weekend.”

— Harry Hurley, Author (973espn.com)

What’s next

Atlantic City officials will likely look to build on the success of this weekend by continuing to attract a diverse array of events and entertainment options to the city.

The takeaway

Atlantic City's ability to host a wide range of successful events, from parades to concerts to sporting events, demonstrates the city's ongoing revitalization and its potential to become a more well-rounded tourist destination beyond just its casino industry.