You Don’t Have to be in Boston to Have the St. Patrick’s Day Spirit

Did you know that San Diego boasts the “Largest Saint Patrick’s Day Parade West of the Mississippi.” It’s true, we really have a rocking parade, filled with all those Irish Step Dancers, Bag Pipers, and more then enough green filled floats. Since San Diego is such a culturally diverse city, we make a big deal out of every holiday; Saint Patrick’s Day is no exception.

In fact, the weekend before St. Patrick’s Day is filled to the max with lots fun events! There’s things to do as a family, things for those in a party mood, or those just wanting a bit more education on tradition and culture.

The Saturday before Saint Patrick’s Day- close to Balboa Park, is the big parade and festival. The parade start at 10:30 am and at 12:45 the festival entertainment starts. The event is along Fifth and Laurel. My suggestion is get down to Balboa Park early to get parking and take one of the Orange Trolley’s to take you close to the parade route- right over the Cabrillo Bridge. Just a bit of warning, the weather normally seems to hit the extremes, hot or cold, so be prepared.

Bring money if you plan to have some fun at the carnival rides, buy things at the booths, or have some food or beer garden fun. See the links below for more detailed information.

One of my family’s long time traditions is the Lawn Program at the House of Ireland. This event focuses more on the tradition and history side of Ireland and is at the House of Ireland at Balboa Park.  This ALWAYS takes place the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day.

Have you ever made it to the International Houses? It’s a lot of culture and fun when they plan an event like this. All the houses, of all nations are open. Each house has a little bit about their country and a little snack to sample. I suggest bringing some one dollar bills or some loose change to donate to each house to try some of the food, or in the case of House of China, get your name written in Mandarin. My kid is particularly found of House of Denmark, as they have a Lego table.

Also bring some cash, for House of Ireland typically sells Bangers & Mash or Irish Stew…sometimes even Shamrocks!

I have listed a few helpful links to keep you up on all the fun:

• House of Ireland’s Lawn Program (Event Page)
• 37th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival (Event Page)
• San Diego Shamrock in the Gaslamp
• St. Patrick’s Day Half Marathon
• The Field Irish Pub

May the Luck of the Irish be with you! I hope your family gets a chance to enjoy some green fun. Don’t forget to make some Corn Beef & Cabbage, and set up a leprechaun trap or two. Find your pot of gold at the end of the rainbow!

What traditions do you normally do for Saint Patrick’s Day?

Also, check out the March Guide to San Diego events for more events happening this month!