Mar 15, 2000 - By Molly Kimelman
Ever since 1737, Americans have celebrated the works of St. Patrick on March 17, the patron saint of Ireland. Thus, it only makes sense that to honor the Irish, we imitate their customs and traditions. It is almost considered blasphemy for students not to party, have fun and enjoy themselves on the day designated for just that. Philadelphia offers hundreds of exciting ways to spend St. Patrick's Day, but please be careful and responsible in search for your "pot o' gold"!
The Renowned Blackthorn
If you missed its performance in Connelly Center on Tuesday, you can still catch the authentic folk sounds of Blackthorn at the Philadelphia Navy Yard on Saturday. The show begins at 4 p.m. and tickets are available at the door.
Gary McMullen, Richard McMullan, Fred Klein and Dennis Green perform fun, original songs about emigration, sea shanties and jigs, among other things, and they each play at least 20 instruments, including the mandolin, accordion and banjo.
Bar Hop Like a Leprechaun
Many authentic Irish pubs are located within the Philadelphia area. Finnigan's Wake is probably the most popular pub and entertainment complex as it is included in National Geographic Traveler Magazine's "Ten Must See Sites in Philly." Its unique Irish atmosphere, complete with cobblestone floors and actual Irish memorabilia, inhabits four thematic floors and features live Irish bands. Located at 537-41 N. and 3rd St., Finnigan's Wake will host a memorable St. Patrick's Day celebration beginning bright and early at 8 a.m. on Saturday.
"Black Sheep" refers to an Irish bar located on 247 S. and 17th Street in Philadelphia. Owned by two Irishmen, the pub showcases an "Irish fusion" style and an extensive selection of beer and whiskey. A solid, red door, which is conveniently opened from 11:30 to 2:30 a.m. and a quaint brick townhouse facade attract everyone from Wharton students to lawyers and doctors.
For an older-style Irish setting, visit Fergie's Pub on St. Patrick's Day, located at 1214 Sansom St. Claiming to be reminiscent of the pubs of the Emerald Isle and Old Dublin Town, Fergie's offers $20 tickets for a night of food, drinks and partying. Tickets must be purchased prior to the event.
For students who prefer to stay close to Villanova, Erin's Pub and P.J. Henry's are convenient alternatives, located less than five minutes down Lancaster Avenue.
New York, New York Want to celebrate St. Pat's Day in New York City? The Irish Cultural Society is hosting a bus trip to the City, leaving at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday from Pike Lot and returning at 8 p.m. The New York parade, which begins on 42nd Street, is famous for its 150,000 marchers, representing Irish Societies from around the country. The trip costs $25 and students can show up at the buses or call Dan Murphy at (610) 212-5589 for tickets.
