WASHINGTON – The green comes out this weekend, along with pints, mash and all things Irish. St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most festive holidays and there is no shortage of ways to celebrate in the region. Prepare to get rowdy!
Here is a quick roundup of Saturday activities:
- The Harp & Shamrock Society and Gaithersburg team up again for the annual St. Patrick’s Parade at the Washingtonian Center. Shenanigans include bagpipes, Celtic dancers and fire trucks, and is followed by live music until 1 p.m. The festivities are free to the public.
- Virginia residents can head to Vienna Elementary School for the Celtic Arts Festival from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Join the Vienna Elementary School Jammers, Vienna Choral Society, Tinsmith and others as they celebrate the Irish culture through music, dance and food. Tickets are $15 for seniors and students, $20 for a single adult and $35 for families.
- If you’re looking for the cheapest beer around, Shamrocks & Shenanigans at Rumors Restaurant in Northwest D.C. is probably your best option. From 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Coors Lights are just $1.17 and Blue Moons are $1 all day. DJs, live entertainment and “tons of free beads and souvenirs” are also promised.
- For a traditional Irish breakfast, try the Old Brogue Irish Pub in Great Falls. Tucked inside the back room, known as the Snuggery, enjoy food and drink specials all day. Breakfast will be served from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by an Irish lunch at 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. and dinner starting at 4 p.m. For reservations, call 703-759-3309.
- Duffy’s Irish pub in Northwest will offer day-long specials. Doors open at 11 a.m. A $5 cover will grant you access to green Jello shots, lots of beer and a drop-in performance by the Culkin School of Irish Dance. A DJ will spin Irish favorites, as well. Leave the credit cards at home — Duffy’s is cash only. Call 202-265-3413 for more information.
For those looking to spend their weekend avoiding the holiday hoopla, here are some alternatives:
- The writers behind “Friends” bring a new romantic comedy to the Adventure Theatre in Glen Echo, Md. “Personals — A Love Story for the Rest of Us” is a tale about finding love in the Internet age. Performances are Friday and Saturday, 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15 to $21 and can be purchased online or by calling 301-634-2270.
- Sulu DC, an “underground network” for members of the Asian American Pacific Islander community, presents “Spoken Explosion” Saturday 7 p.m. at Artisphere. The bi-monthly series will feature spoken word by Asian artists and comedians and short films. General admissions tickets are $15 and $12 for students. Purchase online or call 703-875-1187.
- There is nothing more relaxing than spending a Sunday checking out vintage threads. The House of Eloise Tea Time Trunk Show is the perfect opportunity combine “libations and threads,” with Sprinkles and Sweet Treats cupcakes to boot. Head to Marvin on 14th Street NW around 5:30 p.m. for the festivities. Registration is free but encouraged. Call 202-797-7171 for more information.
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