The Feast Day of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is an occasion for joyous celebration. The actual holiday is March 17, but events are usually planned the weekend before this date. In Chicago, Illinois, the famous Saint Patrick’s Day Parade takes place Saturday, March 13, 2010. Festivities begin at 10:45am, at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive when the Chicago River is dyed a brilliant green--an exciting Chicago tradition. The parade starts at noon from Columbus Drive and Balbo in downtown Chicago, and continues north along Columbus Drive.

While in downtown Chicago, hungry visitors in search of authentic Irish food can go to the Fado Irish Pub. Located at 100 W. Grand Avenue, the pub is known for its delicious appetizers, shepherd’s pie, corned beef, and Irish breakfast. Specialty beers include Guinness and Harp lager. On March 13 the pub has performances by many Celtic musicians such as the Shannon Rovers; stages are open to adults only. Festival participants are reminded to please not drink and drive.

Also on March 13 is the South Side Irish Family Fest--a neighborhood celebration of Irish heritage with many kid-friendly activities, food, and a grand raffle. The event starts at 11:00am and is located at 2407 W. 111th St. in Chicago. A performance by Hothouse Flowers is scheduled. A well-known south side pub is Cork & Kerry at 10614 S. Western Avenue. This venue has several bars serving a variety of drinks and beers such as Kilkenny; patrons can enjoy music by local bands.

A third celebration, the Northwest Side Irish Parade, takes place on Sunday, March 14, 2010. This neighborhood parade begins at 11:00am and proceeds from the intersection of Raven and Neola. A local dining favorite is Galvin's Public House, at 5901 W. Lawrence Avenue, Chicago. The restaurant offers a full menu with quality dishes such as smoked salmon, Guinness steak, Irish stew and Gaelic chicken; Sundays include a children’s brunch. Diners can also listen to live music in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Accommodations in Chicago range from the economical to luxurious. The elegant Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park, has magnificent views of the city, and is near Grant Park, museums, shopping, and the lakefront. This landmark hotel at 200 North Columbus Drive is also close to the parade route. Deluxe amenities include rainfall showers, soaking tubs, restaurant, spa/health club, and business center. For convenience and accessibility, travelers can try the Hilton Chicago O'Hare, located in Terminal 2 of O’Hare International Airport, with connections to the downtown area by train. The hotel offers several restaurants, athletic club, and sound-resistant rooms with European-style linens.

All are welcome to celebrate this holiday and experience the city’s vibrant Irish community. For more information on Irish culture, visitors can go to the Irish American Heritage Center, at 4626 N Knox Avenue in Chicago.