Where to Go for St. Patrick's Day in Southern New Jersey and Philadelphia 2012

St. Patrick's day comes along every year on March 17th. This year, the Irish holiday happens on a Saturday, so you can make your entire weekend a celebration, however, many events occur before the actual date.

28th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade
Located in Seaside Heights, NJ in Ocean County, this parade is sure to please. The parade, however, is the week before on March 10th. The traditional parade starts at noon and is a tribute to St. Patrick. With marching bands, dancers, floats, food to eat, mummers and more, this parade is fun for the whole family. Get there early to park.

Caffrey's Tavern
This place is Irish all year round, but join them on St. Patrick's day for a full, fledged Irish experience. Caffrey's also boasts live music on Fridays and Saturdays as well as traditional dishes such as Fish and Chips and Corn Beef and Cabbage. Their website has coupons, so check those out before you go. Caffrey's is located at 440 Route 9 South in Forked River, New Jersey.

Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Parade
There is still time to be in the parade if you choose to do that instead of just watching, but being a spectator, whether it be live on March 11th or from home on March 17th when it re-airs, is also fun. The parade goes from 1-4pm and proceeds down Kelly Drive. This is a true tradition, since the 1700's, in Philadelphia. There will be floats, bands, flags, music, performances, food and so much more.

Craft Beer Express
Also a Philadelphia St. Patrick's day tradition, the Cafe Beer Express experience happens the week before St. Patrick's day. This year, on March 10th from 11am - 9pm, many bars in town join in this pub crawl for people who love beer and want to taste and try new beers. Tickets can be bought at the bars or you can buy a bus ticket for $10 in advance. A list of bars participating can be found on their website.