Indianapolis, Indiana hosts some great St. Patrick’s Day events. In 2012, there will be two days of festivities downtown, both on Friday, March 16, and Saturday, March 17’th. Most of the annual traditions are free and open to the public. From the greening of the canal, to the parade, to the party tent, you will be sure to find plenty to do around Indianapolis on St. Patrick’s Day. There is also a 4 mile run/walk in the city that is open to all ages and abilities, and a new event for 2012 called ShamRockin’ the Circle. Put on your green and plan to spend St. Patrick’s Day weekend enjoying all of the festivities that Indianapolis has to offer.
Friday, March 16 starts off at 6:00 am with the annual greening of the canal. This free event has been a St. Patrick’s Day tradition in Indianapolis since 1997. Watch as dye is poured into the central canal and the entire canal, including the fountains, turn a bright shade of green. There will be plenty of activities at the canal as well. Enjoy free donuts and coffee, authentic Irish entertainment, drawings for prizes sponsored by the Hoosier Lottery, as well as free coupons from the Hoosier lotto and Village Pantry!
The highlight of the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Indianapolis is of course the St. Patrick’s Day parade. The 32nd annual parade will start at 11:30 am. The parade is free and open to the public, and is a great family-friendly activity. The parade hosts over 80 participants, including high school bands, floats, Irish bands, and law enforcement. There will be local media and celebrities present as well. There is also a parade tent party from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on Vermont Street, located in the middle of the parade route. The tent is heated and will include live entertainment, St. Patrick’s Day merchandise, food and a beer garden. The tent is free to enter and is open to the public. The Indy Irish citizen(s) of the year will also be honored in the tent as part of the annual tradition.
On Saturday, March 17’th, the annual Shamrock run and walk will start downtown at 10:00 am. The run/walk is currently in its 21’st year. The race is open to people of all ages and abilities. You can choose the 4 mile run/walk with a timing tag, or the 4 mile fun walk with no timing tag. The race benefits amateur sports organizations in central Indiana. This is a pre-registered event so please visit the website below for more information.
ShamRockin’ the circle is a new St. Patrick’s Day event for Indianapolis in 2012 but promises to be a great time. The event is free and open to the public. There will be live music on the circle as well as interactive exhibits, lots of good food, and a beer garden.
All of the events in Indianapolis will go on rain or shine, so bring the entire family out and enjoy St. Patrick’s Day in the city. Don’t forget to wear green!
For more info please visit:
http://www.indystpats.com/parade/index.htm