St. Patrick's Day Parades and Pubs in Dallas

There are ten times as many Americans of Irish ancestry as there are Irish living in Ireland, so it's no wonder that Dallas rivals Dublin for holiday festivities. Those without the proud heritage often don an honorary mantle to join in the fun. By combining the enticing Irish culture with the stateside penchant for hoopla, the city provides plenty of St. Patrick's Day revelry.

There's more to St. Pat's than shamrock shakes and green beer. Try Tipperary Inn, The Idle Rich, Trinity Hall, Dubliner, or Poor David's for a more genuine experience. These pubs offer the authentic ambiance of Eire, superb live music, and rivers of rich Guinness draught. Plus, all are sure to be appropriately rowdy over the weekend.

Saturday, March 11th, the Greenville Avenue St. Patrick's Day Parade returns for its 27th year. Thousands of spectators and participants gather for food, floats, 2- and 4-legged paraders, and music. The Greenville Avenue Area Business Association notes that the "Patty O' Furniture Psycho Killer Drill Team", tap-dancing grandmothers, and leprechauns on Harleys are some of the biggest crowd pleasers. With parade categories like "Least Likely to Finish" and "Toilet Bowl Award," a raucous St. Pat's is assured.

Sunday, March 12th, Downtown's St. Patrick's Day Parade will wind its way from the Arts District to the West End. Fabulous floats, local and Irish marching bands, dance teams and more will entertain the whole family.

To truly have some craic -that's Gaelic for "fun"- tromp around the 24th Annual North Texas Irish Festival in Fair Park. Friday, March 3rd, through Sunday March 5th, the festival celebrates the Heirs of Erin with Celtic music, food and beverages, and arts and crafts, as well as cultural displays and children's activities. Kilts and costumes highly encouraged!

Put on a little green so as not to get pinched. Then, get off yer' duff and raise a glass to this spirited saint.