Celebrating St. Paddy’s Day in Central IL? Here are some parades and events

Simmy Wood
·5 min read
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CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA) — March 17 marks Saint Patrick’s Day, a more than 1,000-year-old holiday that celebrates all things Irish. Central Illinois may be far from Ireland, but there are still plenty of fun festivities happening in the area that would make even a leprechaun green with envy.

Before we look to the weekend ahead, let’s get a little background.

St. Patrick’s Day gets its namesake from the patron saint of Ireland who lived 16 centuries ago. Historians say St. Patrick was not born Irish, but at 16 years old, he was brought to Ireland after he was kidnapped and enslaved. St. Patrick escaped after six years, but later returned — bringing Christianity with him.

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St. Patrick now has several legends associated with his name. Perhaps the most well-known is that he is said to have used a three-leaf clover to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity. Hence, the shamrock has become a prominent symbol of St. Patty’s Day.

Since the ninth or 10th century, St. Patrick’s Day has been held on the date of St. Patrick’s death, March 17. It has since spread worldwide, allowing people near and far to participate in the festivities — including here in Central Illinois.

So, are you feeling lucky? Here are just a few St. Patrick’s Day events happening near you.

St. Patrick’s Day Parades

Urbana

  • Sunday, March 17 from 2-4 p.m.

  • Riggs Beer Company

The “World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade” will be held at Riggs Beer Company this Sunday from 2-4 p.m.

Of course, green beer will be available, as well as some good old-fashioned Irish grub from Baldarotta’s Porketta & Sicilian Sausage. Food includes bangers and mash, or corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes. Flour and Fire Pizza will also offer some delicious pizza slices from their truck.

The event will feature a performance from the Shamrock Academy of Irish Dance and music brought to you by DJ Silkee.

Decatur

  • Saturday, March 16 at 11 a.m.

  • Downtown Decatur

A parade will take place in downtown Decatur starting at 11 a.m. Parking will not be available at the Civic Center due to a large events happening at the venue. However, the City parking garage across from the Avon Theater on Water Street will be open.

A trolley will also be looping between the parking garage and Civic Center/Hall at 520 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to help get people to the parade. Pickup will be at the corner of Eldorado and Water Streets.

Springfield

  • Saturday, March 16 at 12 p.m.

  • Downtown Springfield

The 40th Annual Springfield St. Patrick’s Day Parade will step off at noon on Saturday. This year’s theme is “Irish Pubs and Folklore.”

DJ Blake of the 103.7 WDBR Morning Show and Lynch from the 100.5 WYMG Morning Show will emcee the parade. This year’s grand marshal is Barry Friedman.

No coolers, pets, or bicycles are allowed within parade areas or along the route. Sixth Street between Capitol Avenue and Washington Street is available as a family-friendly area. Meanwhile, those ages 21+ can purchase a $1 wristband to enjoy adult beverages outside of licensed establishments from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Proceeds will go to the Parade Committee.

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Events

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in Danville

  • Sunday, March 17 at 8 a.m.

  • Vermilion River Beer Company

Vermilion River Beer Company’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration will feature live music starting at 8 a.m., with an Irish breakfast from Berzerker’s Grill & Catering at 10 a.m.

The Shamrock Academy of Irish Dance will also make an appearance.

The celebration coincides with VRBC’s “Thirdy Thunday Jazzth Brunch.” Musical talents will include David Howie, Todd Gallagher Jazz Combo featuring violinist Emily Randle, Mark Grzelak of Red Pop Fury with special guest Tom Grassman, and Dody Cosmedy & Matt Stewart. The entertainment schedule can be viewed here.

St. Pat’s Bash and The Stitchgivers in Effingham

  • Saturday, March 16 at 5:15 p.m. (Doors open)

  • Effingham Event Center

On Saturday, the Effingham Event Center will hold a St. Pat’s Bash. Doors for the Bash open at 5:15 p.m., with dinner from Ochs Street Smoked Meats at 5:45 p.m., and entertainment from Windy City Dueling Pianos at 7 p.m. There will be a live and silent auction, 50/50 drawing, and a golf cart raffle. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online or in the Sacred Heart Parish office at 405 South Henrietta Street.

Visit the Sacred Heart Parish website for more information on St. Pat’s Bash.

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  • Sunday, March 17 from 2-6 p.m.

  • Village Wine

On Sunday, the Stitchgivers will provide Irish music with a bluegrass twist at Village Wine in Effingham from 2 to 6 p.m. Village Wine is offering all-day Irish beers and whiskey flights.

Monticello St. Patrick’s Day specials at Anglers Restaurant & Proper Pour

  • Saturday, March 16 at 6:30 p.m.

  • Anglers Restaurant & Proper Pour

Anglers Restaurant & Proper Pour will offer Irish-inspired food items such as Reuben egg rolls, corn beef and cabbage, and Reuben, pastrami, and corn beef on rye sandwiches. Food and specialty drinks will be available all night. Live music by Kyle Hurd will also be featured at the holiday event.

For more events happening throughout Central Illinois, visit our Community Calendar.

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