St. Patrick’s Parade Day Celebrations (Sat., 3/11/17)

1) If your neighborhood seems a little quiet this morning, it may be because over 200,000 Pittsburghers and visitors are downtown for The St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Begun as early as 1869 and billed as one of the oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country, it includes bands, Irish organizations, Miss Smiling Irish Eyes, and just about every politician in Allegheny County. Every year brings something slightly different, although who could forget the 1993 parade, which continued despite a blizzard, the worst that the city had seen in over 100 years. (Hopefully no snow this year.) The parade begins at the intersection of Liberty Avenue and 11th Street to Grant Street and then onto the Boulevard of the Allies, where it will turn right. It then marches down the Boulevard of the Allies to the parade reviewing stand at Stanwix Street, ending at Commonwealth Place. This year’s parade has a very special theme related to Ireland’s independence—The Easter Rising 100th Remembrance. Market Square has family and kid-friendly entertainment and activities from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Remember, anyone who wants to be Irish—is Irish—on St. Paddy’s Day! Parade starts at 10 a.m. Downtown. (RH, CM)

2) Parade Day and St. Patrick’s Day are good times to have a taste of Ireland’s native waters (Guinness, Harp, and Murphy’s brews are some good ones as are Tullamore Dew and Jameson Irish Whiskies). Have an old Irish toast, such as “May you be in heaven a full half hour before the devil knows you’re dead,” in any of several happenin’ Irish pubs including Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, McArdle’s, Murphy’s Tap Room, McFadden’s, Riley’s Pour House, or Claddagh.  For those who don’t imbibe or are designated drivers (thank you!), enjoy a McDonald’s Shamrock Shake, a soft drink, or a cup o’ hot tea.

3) One of the most happening spots to celebrate Parade Day (March 11) and St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) is Mullaney’s Harp and Fiddle. With a tent connected to the Pub, the celebration space is doubled. Irish bands and performers hold court all day and night in both spaces beginning at noon and going until about midnight. Mullaney’s will be featuring the top bands on the Pittsburgh Irish music scene including: Donnie Irish Band, Whiskey Limerick, Tulleycavey, and Guaranteed Irish. 2329 Penn Ave., Strip District.

4) Revel + Roost, a newer downtown hot spot , is seeking to spark St. Patrick’s Parade day traditions of its own. The sister restaurants are starting out the day (7 – 9 a.m.) with Kegs + Eggs ($30), which includes a breakfast buffet, open bar complete with bottomless mimosas, Bloody Mary’s, well spirits, Guinness, Irish whiskey, house wine, and green beer specials. From 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. the restaurant and bar will be holding an Irish Eyes Celebration ($20). Revel in specially priced themed spirits, a pizza buffet, giveaways, and of course, Irish music. After the parade and throughout the evening Revel will be featuring casual dining and drinks while upstairs at Roost the menu will highlight fine Irish fare. The festivities will continue after dark as well. Revel + Roost is located at 242 Forbes Ave., just steps away from party central at Market Square. Downtown.

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