Fill your weekend with a bit o’ Irish luck. (Photo: Skylar Gerald)
You don’t need a rainbow to find these Iowa pots of gold. Find several St. Pat’s celebrations across the state.
Davenport: The St. Patrick Society keeps luck alive in the Quad Cities. The party kicks off Friday with a luncheon and live music. The 37th annual Grand Parade begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, followed by a post-parade bash. Learn more about each event and make your travel plans on the society’s website.
Emmetsburg: This northeastern Iowa town overflows with Irish heritage and culture. Named by early Irish settlers for Irish patriot Robert Emmet (1778-1803), Emmetsburg goes all in for Ireland’s patron saint. Festivities include a Miss Shamrock Pageant, parade, fish fry and chainsaw artist. Check out the full schedule.
Dyersville: Pretend you’re chasing leprechauns in the 43rd annual Gaelic Gallop on Saturday. The race includes two options, 8K or 2 miles, plus a kiddie version for anyone 6 and under.
Other cities: If you love green beer with bangers and mash, you can find them at plenty of Irish pubs across the state. Party like an Irishman at the Founders Irish Pub in Bondurant or head to one of Iowa City’s official St. Patty’s pub crawls. Otherwise, Jameson’s Public House in Waterloo and Dublin Bay Irish Pub & Grill in Ames serve Emerald Isle fare any day of the year.
