The annual St. Patrick's Day Parade will roll through the streets of Seattle Saturday, March 12, beginning at 12:30 p.m.
Whether you are Irish or just love a festive march of goofiness, the St. Patrick's day is a great way to welcome in Spring and let your kids dress up in their craziest (green) costumes. From leprechauns to bagpipe bands to step-dancing teams of the highest caliber, the event is energy-filled and well organized each year. According to Seattle's Irish Heritage Club, "everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day."
The show starts at 4th and Jefferson downtown and proceeds north to Westlake Park. It then moves on to Seattle Center when it offiicially ends at 2 p.m. with closing ceremonies. The Monorail between Westlake Center and the Seattle Center will be free on March 12 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Even if you plan to view the march from a downtown street corner, consider heading to Seattle Center post parage. That's where the annual Irish Festival will be in full swing, with booths selling Irish and Celtic products, Irish music, singing, dancing, workshops, lectures, cultural displays, children's contests and activities. Most activities are family-oriented. Sign your kids up for "Smilingest Irish Eyes Contest" and the "Most Irish-Looking Face Contest" and other hands-on activities in the Children's Activities Center.
Contemporary Irish short films will be screened during our Irish Reels Film Festival (www.irishreels.org).
