Philadelphia has a strong Irish heritage, which means that whether you're looking for traditional Irish dancing and music or are more interested in a tall Irish beer, there's plenty to do on and around St. Patrick's Day in Philadelphia.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
The Erin Express and Craft Beer Express
Where: Bars around Philadelphia
A long-running St. Patrick's Day bar crawl, the Erin Express provides bus service to several bars throughout Philadelphia, including Cavanaugh's, The Blarney Stone, Bonner's Irish Pub, Mill Creek Tavern and others. The bus is free and runs from noon until 5:30 p.m.
This year a competing bus is also available – the Craft Beer Express. Running from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and stopping at bars including Johnny Brenda's, The Institute and Brauhaus Schmitz, the Craft Beer Express promises more upscale beer and food specials.
Great Narberth Leprechaun Hunt
Where: Narberth, NJ
Children search for leprechauns and prizes in this afternoon scavenger hunt.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
The Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Parade
Where: Parade runs up the Ben Franklin Parkway to the Art Museum
This annual parade features a variety of floats and performances. Also broadcast on CBS3.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010 (St. Patrick's Day)
After-Work Tour and Toast
Where: The Laurel Hill Cemetery
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day by learning about notable people of Irish descent buried in the Laurel Hill Cemetery, then enjoy beer at the cemetery's gatehouse.
Green Quizzo
Where: The New Wave Cafe
Meaning both St. Patrick's Day green and eco-friendly green, this $10-to-play evening of Quizzo goes to benefit the Human League of Philadelphia. Vegan and vegetarian food and drink specials will be available.
Pints & Pancakes
Where: Fado, Center City
Like ever other Irish bar in Philadelphia, Fado will be doing brisk business on St. Patrick's Day. But one notable part of Fado's celebration is that they'll be serving free pancakes before 11 a.m. Fado's St. Patrick's Day festivities also include dancers, bag pipers, Irish food and more.
St. Patrick's Night at the Irish Center
Where: The Irish Center
Welcoming revelers of all ages, this celebration will feature traditional dancing and music. Alcoholic drinks will be available.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
St. Patrick's Day Beef and Beer
Where: Sherman Mills, East Falls
Featuring food, drink and Irish entertainment, proceeds from this beef and beer go to benefit Mt. Airy's Inn Yard Park.