Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a day that honors Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Over the years, this day has evolved into a variety of festivals across the globe celebrating Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing, and a whole lot of green. In the United States, Little Rock, Arkansas, is no exception.
Table of Events and Parades
The Saint Patrick’s Day celebration in Little Rock, Arkansas, is marked by a number of events and parades. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Saint Patrick’s Day Parade | Main Street | March 17, 2024 | 1:00 PM |
| Irish Cultural Society Festival | River Market District | March 17, 2024 | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Family Fun Day at the Museum | Arkansas Arts Center | March 17, 2024 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl | Various Locations | March 17, 2024 | 6:00 PM – Late |
Details of Events and Parades
Downtown Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
The Downtown Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is a highlight of the celebrations in Little Rock. The parade route is filled with floats, marching bands, and performers, all decked out in green. The parade starts at 1:00 PM on Main Street and is a spectacle not to be missed.
Irish Cultural Society Festival
Following the parade, the Irish Cultural Society hosts a festival in the River Market District from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The festival features traditional Irish music, dance performances, and a variety of food and drink stalls. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Irish culture.
Family Fun Day at the Museum
The Arkansas Arts Center hosts a Family Fun Day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The event includes arts and crafts activities, storytelling, and performances, making it a perfect event for families with children.
Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl
For the adults, the Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl kicks off at 6:00 PM. Participants can visit various pubs and bars around the city, enjoying special Saint Patrick’s Day deals and promotions.
Specific Places to Visit
- River Market District: This vibrant area is the heart of the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations, hosting the Irish Cultural Society Festival and numerous pubs participating in the Pub Crawl.
- Arkansas Arts Center: A visit to the Arkansas Arts Center for the Family Fun Day is a must for families. The center also has a collection of art exhibits that are worth exploring.
- Main Street: The location of the Downtown Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, Main Street is lined with local businesses and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat before or after the parade.
Routes to Take
- Parade Route: Starting on Main Street, the parade route offers a scenic walk through downtown Little Rock.
- River Market District Walk: A stroll through the River Market District will take you past various Saint Patrick’s Day events and attractions.
- Pub Crawl Route: For those participating in the Pub Crawl, a route that takes you through the city’s most popular pubs and bars is a must.
Restaurants and Pubs
- Dugan’s Pub: Known for its authentic Irish pub atmosphere, Dugan’s Pub is a great place to enjoy traditional Irish fare.
- The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium: With a wide selection of beers on tap, The Flying Saucer is a popular stop on the Pub Crawl.
- Samantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill: Offering a sophisticated dining experience, Samantha’s is a great choice for a Saint Patrick’s Day dinner.
Entertainment
The Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations in Little Rock offer a variety of entertainment options. From the lively performances at the parade and festival to the bustling atmosphere of the Pub Crawl, there’s never a dull moment. Additionally, many local pubs and restaurants offer live music and entertainment throughout the day.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear Green: Don’t forget to wear something green, the traditional color of Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Arrive Early: The events can get crowded, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to get a good spot, especially for the parade.
- Plan Your Day: With so many events happening, it’s helpful to plan your day in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on anything.
- Stay Hydrated: Remember to drink plenty of water, especially if you’re participating in the Pub Crawl.
- Enjoy Responsibly: While Saint Patrick’s Day is a day of celebration, it’s important to enjoy the festivities responsibly.
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parade: Participating in the Downtown Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is a must. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
- Visit the Irish Cultural Society Festival: This festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Irish culture through music, dance, and food.
- Participate in the Pub Crawl: If you’re over 21, joining the Pub Crawl can be a fun way to explore the city’s pubs and bars.
- Explore the River Market District: This area is bustling with activity during Saint Patrick’s Day, making it a great place to explore.
- Spend Time at the Arkansas Arts Center: Especially if you’re with family, the Family Fun Day at the Arkansas Arts Center offers a variety of activities to enjoy.
Food to Eat
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: This traditional Irish dish is a staple at many Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Irish Stew: A hearty Irish stew can be found at many restaurants and food stalls during the festivities.
- Soda Bread: This traditional Irish bread is a great accompaniment to any meal.
- Shepherd’s Pie: Another traditional Irish dish, Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and delicious option.
- Irish Breakfast: For those starting the celebrations early, an Irish Breakfast is a great way to start the day.
Drinks
- Irish Beer: Local pubs and bars often have a selection of Irish beers available for Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Irish Whiskey: For those who prefer spirits, Irish whiskey is a popular choice.
- Irish Coffee: This warming drink, made with coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, and topped with cream, is a delightful treat.
- Green Beer: Many places serve green beer on Saint Patrick’s Day as part of the tradition.
- Guinness: No Saint Patrick’s Day celebration would be complete without a pint of Guinness.
Other Details
Remember, Saint Patrick’s Day is a public celebration, and it’s important to respect the city and its residents. Keep the streets clean, respect public property, and be considerate of others. Also, remember to dress appropriately for the weather, as March can still be quite chilly in Little Rock.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a vibrant and exciting celebration that offers a variety of events and activities for all ages. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, participating in the festivities is a great way to experience Irish culture and enjoy the community spirit of Little Rock. So, mark your calendar for March 17, 2024, and get ready to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in style!
FAQs
A: The parade starts at 1:00 PM on Main Street.
A: The festival is held in the River Market District from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
A: Traditional foods include Corned Beef and Cabbage, Irish Stew, Soda Bread, and Shepherd’s Pie.
A: Popular drinks include Irish Beer, Irish Whiskey, Irish Coffee, Green Beer, and Guinness.
A: It’s traditional to wear something green for Saint Patrick’s Day. Also, remember to dress appropriately for the weather.