St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner, and is sure to be celebrated by Irish and non-Irish people alike across the Bay area. If you're looking to get in on the St. Paddy's Day fun, check out these events.
Dying the Hillsborough River green has become a tradition in Tampa. Saturday, March 18, the River will again become a bright shade of green, in an event including live entertainment, games, kids activities, local restaurants serving small plates of Irish faire, beer, and more! Admission is free and the entire family is welcome, including four-legged members.
In the spirit of St. Patrick, any attendee who brings three non-perishable food items will receive a green "Saint Patrick's Army" shirt provided by the Salvation Army while supplies last. All donations will benefit the Salvation Army and provide support for those in need. There will be a tent on site to collect the donations.
-Indian Shores St. Patrick's Day Festival
For the sixth year in a row, Irish 31 Pub House & Eatery and Ferg’s Live will host Tampa Bay’s Biggest and Best Full Week of St. Patrick’s Day parties and events for fun-seekers of all ages. Paddyfest includes several events including a family fun run, K-9's in kilts costume contest, and a Paddyfest extravaganza. Check out the full event list here.
Go to a pub
The Bay area is home to several Irish pubs that will be celebrating St. Patrick's day to the max. From Four Green Fields, to MacDinton's, Mulligan's, O' Brien's, Flanagan's and more, there are plenty of places to get Irish food, beer and whiskey to ring in the festivities.
Shamrocks and Shenanigans at the Renaissance Festival
This weekend at the Bay area Renaissance Festival, there will be multiple St. Patrick's Day themed events. The Margaret Morrison Highland Dancers will be in attendance, and events like the race for the rattle and Tampa Bay Pipe and Drum are on the schedule.
St. Patrick's Day Block Party Extravaganza
Thirsty First and The One Night Stands on 1st Ave. N in St. Pete are holding a street party featuring Leprechaun wrestling, bands, DJ and more.The celebration starts at noon with Leprechaun wrestling starting at 9:00 p.m. VIP tickets can be purchased for $50.
Rough Riders 2017 St. Patrick's Night Parade
This year, we get to celebrate St Patrick's Day TWICE on the same weekend. Finish the weekend off the Rough Riders way with our annual St Patrick's Night Parade. Applications are going out as we speak. Make sure your krewe or organization gets theirs so you don't miss out on fun.
And if you need a safe way to get home after your St. Paddy's Day fun, call AAA. They will give you a free ride and tow for trips up to 10 miles. This starts Friday and ends Sunday morning. The number is (855) 2-Tow-2-Go.