The Irish in Indianapolis have contributed to the city in many ways — from building our structures, building businesses, contributing to the arts, and the politics of the city.
The most Irish of holidays is St. Patrick’s Day. The day marks the death of Ireland’s patron saint, who was said to introduce Christianity to the island, and cast out the snakes. Here in the United States, St. Patrick’s Day celebrates the contributions of those with Irish heritage, as well as the Irish culture. But for many, it’s about the beer and whiskey.
St. Patrick’s Day will be celebrated most of the weekend, March 13 to the actual day of Tuesday, March 17 at watering holes across the city. Even if you have not a drop of Irish blood in you, you can still be an honorary Irish-person for the day. Just find something green to wear, and start the festivities at the 43rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Friday, March 13 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on North St. between Meridian and Pennsylvania. The Indy Public Safety Foundation will have a tent party on North St. from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. for folks of all ages, and it’s free.
The Snug, celebrating its third anniversary, will be holding an Irish Festival Block Party Saturday, March 14 from noon-10 p.m. on S. Audubon from just north of Hibben Ave. to just south of the Snug itself. There will be street closures at Bonna Ave. as well as Audubon. There will be food trucks, 210 South Audubon Road. This festive gathering in Irvington features live music, Irish dancers, pipers, food vendors, drinks, and plenty of St. Patrick’s fun throughout the day. Music by Laughing Jack, Patchwork, Tullies at the Wakefield, the St. Patrick’s Day Rogues Pipes & Drums will be featured all afternoon. The event is family friendly, making it a great way to celebrate Irish culture with friends, family, and the community. Admission online is $6 or $10 at the door. Please park and walk in from Bonna Ave., and be courteous to residents who live in the neighborhood. Visit snugin.us for more information and to get tickets online. The pub is located at 210 S. Audubon in the heart of historic Irvington.
Over here on the east side, McGinley’s Golden Ace, one of the oldest pubs in Indianapolis, will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day — plus! They will have traditional Irish music on Friday, March at noon, Saturday, March 14 beginning at 1 p.m. all evening, and then Tuesday, March 17 from noon into the evening. Deardaoin, Dooley Brothers, Brigid’s Cross, Laughing Jack, and Dereck Warfield & the Young Wolfe Tones will be performing in the big tent. Must be 21 or older to enter. Doors open at 11:00am on Friday, Saturday & Tuesday. $10 cover, cash only!
