The parade starts a few weekends before with a celebration dance, then the parade itself is always on a Saturday morning, and concludes with an official- and tons of non-official parties. The official after party is at the Columbian Club, but everywhere you look is full of people in green partying. (I wouldn't take my kid to most of these parties! We stopped a little while at a friend's house who sweetly fed us lunch and let R run around.)
The parade starts at 10:00 a.m. every year at Northside Middle School and travels down Granby Street to A View. It makes a turn onto First View and ends up at Government Ave. If you've never been before, here is what you can expect:
- Lots of drinking. This is the time during the year that everyone has a drink in their hand. Just expect it. I have found that even though there is lots of drinking, it is still a family atmosphere.
- Loud noises. In the parade there are several marching bands, fire trucks, and other loud noises. If your kid is afraid of them bring headphones.
- Lack of bathrooms. Some people rent port-a-potties, and there are a few businesses, but the bathrooms will be crazy. Go before you come.
- Candy, beads, cups, and other things being handed out.
- Lots of the Shriners. I love this because all of their work is for children!
Happy St. Patty's day!
