Those looking to celebrate their own Irish heritage or absorb a little luck of the Irish can partake in two upcoming community-wide events in honor of St. Patrick's Day.
Each year, Paddy Malone's is a hotspot for sporting green and spreading Irish cheer throughout Jefferson City during its annual St. Patrick's Day parade, scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday. Residents and visitors are encouraged to line the parade route as loyal patrons march downtown, throwing beads and candy to spectators during the free event.
Taking place the second Saturday in March each year, the parade begins at Paddy Malone's, 700 W. Main St., heads up High Street and comes back down Capitol Avenue to Bolivar Street, ending back at the pub. For more information, call Allen Tatman at 573-761-5900.
On St. Patrick's Day itself, March 17, the Jefferson City YMCA asks residents if they are feeling lucky during its annual Luck of the Irish 5K. Runners, walkers and families of all ages are encouraged to participate, with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. at Revel Catering and Events, 102 E. High St. The race starts at 9 a.m. at the intersection of Jefferson and High streets. Runners will begin the race with walkers following immediately behind.
Awards will be presented to the overall male and female finishers for runners and walkers, as well as the top three finishers in the runner's designation of age categories ranging from 10 and under through 70 and older. Pre-register by Sunday to be guaranteed a T-shirt. Pre-registration is $25 for adults and $20 for youth (ages 14 and younger) through Sunday; registration March 17 is $30 for adults and $25 for youth.
Early packet pickup is from 4-6 p.m. March 16 at the Firley Y, 525 Ellis Blvd.
For more information, call 573-761-3225. To download a race brochure or a race route map or to register, visit jcymca.org and select "Luck of the Irish 5K" under the "Special Events" tab.