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.
Table of Events and Parades
Omaha offers a plethora of events and parades during the Saint Patrick’s Day celebration. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Omaha St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Downtown Omaha | March 17, 2024 | 10:00 AM |
| Shamrock Shuffle | Zorinsky Lake Park | March 16, 2024 | 9:00 AM |
| St. Paddy’s Day 7K | Werner Park | March 17, 2024 | 8:00 AM |
| Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Crawl | The Old Market | March 16, 2024 | 4:00 PM |
Details of Events and Parades
Omaha St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Omaha St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a city tradition that brings together thousands of spectators each year. The parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups, all decked out in green. It’s a family-friendly event that offers fun and entertainment for all ages.
Shamrock Shuffle
The Shamrock Shuffle is a festive race that takes place at Zorinsky Lake Park. Participants can choose to run or walk the course, and everyone is encouraged to wear green. The event also includes a post-race party with music, food, and prizes.
St. Paddy’s Day 7K
The St. Paddy’s Day 7K is a competitive race held at Werner Park. It’s a great opportunity for runners to test their speed while celebrating the holiday. All participants receive a finisher’s medal and a commemorative t-shirt.
Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Crawl
Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Crawl is an annual bar crawl in The Old Market. Participants can enjoy drink specials at participating bars and restaurants, making it a popular event for adults looking to celebrate the holiday.
Specific Places to Visit
- Downtown Omaha: The heart of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, featuring the parade and numerous events.
- Zorinsky Lake Park: The location of the Shamrock Shuffle, offers beautiful views and outdoor activities.
- Werner Park: The venue for the St. Paddy’s Day 7K, a must-visit for running enthusiasts.
- The Old Market: A historic neighborhood with a variety of bars and restaurants participating in Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Crawl.
Routes to Take
- Downtown Route: This route covers the parade area and nearby attractions in downtown Omaha.
- Park Route: This route takes you to Zorinsky Lake Park and Werner Park, perfect for those participating in the races.
- Bar Crawl Route: This route guides you through The Old Market, hitting all the spots for Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Crawl.
Restaurants and Pubs
- The Dubliner Pub: Known for its authentic Irish atmosphere and live music.
- Barrett’s Barleycorn Pub & Grill: A local favorite offering traditional Irish fare.
- Brickway Brewery & Distillery: Offers a wide selection of craft beers and spirits.
- Wilson & Washburn: An upscale pub with a creative menu and extensive drink list.
Entertainment
Omaha’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is filled with entertainment options. From the lively performances during the parade to the post-race parties at the Shamrock Shuffle and St. Paddy’s Day 7K, there’s never a dull moment. Additionally, many bars and restaurants in The Old Market offer live music and special events as part of Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Crawl.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear Green: Don’t forget to wear green, the color most associated with St. Patrick’s Day.
- Arrive Early: For events like the parade and races, it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot.
- Stay Hydrated: If you’re participating in the races or bar crawl, remember to stay hydrated.
- Plan Your Transportation: With many people celebrating, it’s wise to plan your transportation in advance. Consider using public transit or ride-sharing services.
- Respect Local Laws and Regulations: Ensure you’re aware of and respect local laws and regulations, including those related to COVID-19 safety measures.
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parade: Participate in or watch the Omaha St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a highlight of the celebration.
- Run in a Race: Take part in the Shamrock Shuffle or St. Paddy’s Day 7K for some healthy competition.
- Enjoy the Bar Crawl: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Omaha during Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Crawl.
- Explore the City: Use this festive occasion as an opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Omaha.
- Try Irish Cuisine: Visit local restaurants and pubs to try traditional Irish dishes and drinks.
Food to Eat
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A traditional Irish dish that’s a staple at many St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Irish Stew: A hearty stew made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread that’s often served with meals.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A comforting dish made with ground meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes.
Drinks
- Irish Beer: Try a pint of Guinness or another Irish beer.
- Irish Whiskey: Sample some of the finest Irish whiskeys.
- Irish Coffee: A warming beverage made with coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream.
- Green Drinks: Many bars offer green-colored drinks as part of the St. Patrick’s Day festivities.
Other Details
Remember, St. Patrick’s Day is not just about wearing green and enjoying the festivities. It’s also a day to celebrate Irish culture and heritage. So, take some time to learn about the history of St. Patrick’s Day and the contributions of the Irish community to Omaha and beyond.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Omaha, Nebraska is a time of joyous celebration and community spirit. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, there’s something for everyone. From the lively parade to the festive races, from the delicious food and drinks to the vibrant nightlife, Omaha truly knows how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. So, mark your calendar for March 17, 2024, and get ready to join in the fun!
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17th every year.
Wearing green is a tradition associated with Saint Patrick’s Day. It is said to make one invisible to leprechauns, who would pinch anyone they could see.
Yes, most of the events like the parade and races are family-friendly. However, some events like the bar crawl are intended for adults.
Yes, participants usually need to register in advance for the races. Check the respective event websites for more details.
You can expect a variety of traditional Irish food and drinks at the celebration, including corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, soda bread, Irish beer, and Irish whiskey.
