Every year on March 17, the Irish and Irish-in-spirit commemorate Saint Patrick with parades, dyed brews, and a healthy portion of corn beef and cabbage. As kids, the day was marked with shamrock-shaped cookies and fantastical folklore. As adults, we try make the best of both worlds.
One story, which gave an excuse to pinch strangers, had St. Patrick's celebrators wearing green to disappear from leprechauns and fairy creatures, which would pinch anyone they saw. In reality, the custom of wearing shamrocks or green attire comes from Saint Patrick wearing a shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish.
The "wearing of the green" soon became a nationalistic statement. Irish influence spread, as did St. Patrick's Day's appeal. Whether for religion or inebriety, people all over the world joined in the annual celebration to, eventually, make it one of the most anticipated non-holidays in the United States.
Let's take a look at some family ways to join in the festivities.
The Hermosa Beach 21st Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade - March 14
About 30,000 people take advantage of Hermosa Beach's picturesque scenery every St. Patrick's Day weekend. This year won't be any different as over 100 local businesses, civics organizers, and school marching bands make this celebration one Southern California's most family friendly.
City Chief of Police Sharon Papa made it a point to remind participants that alcohol is strictly prohibited. As temping as treating kids to sweets is, throwing candy or similar items along the parade route is also banned, as children can be injured running into the street.
The parade begins at 11 a.m. near City Hall on Valley Drive and concludes on the corner of Hermosa Avenue and 10th Street. Additional info can be found at the Chamber of Commerce's website.
The Rockin' Shamrock 5k, 10k, 15k, Half Marathon and Marathon - March 15
What a better way to start Sunday off than with an open-course fun run at Van Nuys' Woodley Park. All participants get a finishers medal along with grab bag of goodies.
The 5k and Half Marathon begin at 7 a.m. with the 10k and 15k beginning 40 minutes later. Marathon participants get a head start with a 6:15 a.m. start time. Prices range from $20-43 depending on race length. Head to active.com and abetterworldrunning.com for more information.
St. Patrick's Day Noontime Celebration at Perishing Square - March 17
Beginning at 10:30 a.m., Perishing Square hosts its annual St. Patrick's Day celebration a beer garden, food trucks, live music, and - of course- a parade. Celtic acts like Cleary Irish Dances and Irish Rock Band Swagger take the stage starting at noon with festivities running until 3 p.m.
Community members interested in participating in the parade can meet on the corner of 5th and Hill Street just as the event is getting underway. Go to LAparks.org for more information.
Hollywood St. Patrick's Day Parade - March 15
Parade Grand Marshal John Lipka welcomes patrons to Tinsel town's extravagant celebration of all things Irish.
Events run from noon until 6 p.m., starting with the parade's departure from the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Harrison Street. The musical lineup includes Blackthorn and U2 cover band UV.
Parking is $10 but far less than downtown garages, and evens out considering the various St. Patrick's Day specials local restaurants are offering. Head to the parade's official website for more info.
OC Marketplace St. Patrick's Day Festival
Not to be left out, Orange County is showing off its green with a celebration at the OC Market Place. A small donation of shoes, clothes, or bedding gets you in free.
Irish dancers and musicians are just a small part of the St. Patrick's Day fun the Orange County fairgrounds have in store. Face painters will be on hand, as will gourmet food trucks. Those eligible to donate blood receive two VIP tickets to the Improv.
Each donation goes to Clothes for the Cause, a non-profit organization that collects these items and turns them into cash for schools and church groups. Visit OCmarketplace.com to learn more.
- Contribute to this Story:
- Send us a tip
- Send us a photo or video
- Suggest a correction
