When you think of a city that really celebrates St. Patrick’s Day, you think of Madison, right? Apparently, yes, as Madison somehow ranks higher than Milwaukee in this category.
Well, even though we’re not at the caliber of a Chicago or a Boston, we do have a lot of events. This year, the majority of the events are concentrated on one weekend instead of two. Here are the highlights:
WJJO/Miller Lite .10K Run/Walk (Saturday, March 14): Each year on the Saturday before St. Patty’s Day, people “race” from State Street Brats to Wando’s (actually about 0.12K). This takes place after they’ve been drinking all morning of course (an hour later at 10 a.m. this year). The partying continues throughout the day at Kollege Klub, Church Key, Double U and Whiskey Jacks.
Regent Street St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl (Saturday, March 14): Bagpipe players will lead this bar crawl that starts at noon at Sconniebar and heads east down Regent Street. There will be specials on Bud products and some giveaways, too.
St. Patrick’s Day Family Fun (Saturday, March 14): This (obviously) family-friendly event held at the DreamBank includes crafts, face painting and the Trinity Irish Dancers.
Shamrock Shuffle (Saturday, March 14): If you want to do a race longer than one block, Saturday’s trot through campus is for you. The 5K/10K run and 2M walk to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Dane County starts at 8 a.m. at the intersection of Frances Street and State Street. Post-race party at Whiskey Jacks.
90s vs 00s St. Paddy’s Day Ball (Saturday, March 14): DJ Josh B Kuhl and DJ Nick Nice will play music videos from the ’90s and 2000s, “with a little Irish flavor thrown in.” Free green beads at the door.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Sunday, March 15): The annual march around the Capitol Square is now in its 23rd year. The parade starts at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, and the grand marshal is local radio personality Pat Gallagher.
St. Patrick’s Party (Sunday, March 15): The Celtic Cultural Center hosts its annual party at the Brink Lounge. Includes live music and the Trinity dancers.
Endless live music and parties: Pick a bar, any bar, and you’ll likely find live entertainment on March 14, 15 or 17. Here are a few examples:
- Erin’s Snug has multiple bands, including the Troy Shanks Duo
- High Noon Saloon has the Kissers
- The Come Back In and Essen Haus have multiple bands, including Deep Pool
- Bierock will televise NCAA basketball during its Irish party
- Gates & Brovi has The Old Tin Can String Band
Tags: downtown, east side, near east, north side, St. Patrick's Day
