Everyone knows that March is the ultimate month for everything green – spring trees are sprouting little green leaves, grass is regaining its healthy green pigment, and most importantly, green beer is flowing in preparation to celebrate the luckiest day of the year. With St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, it’s time to figure out what to do for the big day. There’s no need to have the luck of the Irish with this comprehensive list of local events happening on and around St. Patrick’s Day! Whether you want to spend the day with family, or drink the night away with friends, there’s something for everyone.

Mayor’s River O’ Green Festival
The Mayor’s River O’ Green Festival takes the lead as one of Tampa’s most iconic traditions. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like – an outdoor festival on a bright green river! Taking place at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the Hillsborough River will be transformed into the perfect photo op for the green occasion. Besides a great view of the festive river, there will also be live entertainment, kid-friendly games and activities, as well as food trucks (and green beer) (duh). You can even team up for the River O’ Green Scavenger Hunt, which includes a family friendly “hidden leprechaun” hunt along the river. The festival will take place on March 14 at 11am.

River O’ Green Gallop
Walk, run, or even jig your way through this two-mile course along the green river. This is a great opportunity to watch the dying of the river up close, while also getting an active start to the day! Additionally, all proceeds go toward the Bob Gilbertson Central City YMCA’s Annual Campaign. The race is set to take place on March 14 at 10am at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. 

Rough Riders St. Patrick’s Day Night Parade
This late-night parade is the perfect way to end a long day of festivities, or maybe begin a night of excitement! The parade features an array of festive floats and bead throwing. Filled with lights, music, and everything Irish, there’s not a more wild way to celebrate. The fun will begin on March 14, at 8pm in Ybor City, Tampa. 

Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Pub-Crawl
If you’re thirsty for some holiday ‘spirits’, this pub-crawl is the right move. Including two complimentary drinks, exclusive drink specials, and eight bars on the itinerary, you won’t want to miss out on this night of fun. There’s even a costume contest with a $500 cash prize, so make sure you’re wearing green. The event begins on March 14 at 4pm and tickets can be purchased on eventbrite.com. 

O’Brien’s Irish Pub Block Party
If you’re looking for authenticity, what better way to spend the holiday than at an Irish Pub? Better yet, the home of Irish hospitality, O’Brien’s. O’Brien’s is holding their annual St. Patrick’s Day block party, featuring craft beer, bagpipes, and even Irish step dancers! This day-long event is taking place at O’Brien’s Irish Pub on Saturday, March 17 from 11am to 1am.

Four Green Fields Restaurant
If corned beef and cabbage is your jam, check out Four Green Fields restaurant in Tampa. Named one of the top 100 places in America to drink beer, they pride themselves on being America’s only thatched roof Irish pub. Some people compare it to being in Ireland, but right here in Tampa! The food is consistent with some of the most well-known, classic Irish dishes. Some of the most famous Irish entertainers have even performed at the restaurant. Sip on a fresh pint of Guinness and enjoy some authentic flavors of Ireland. 

St. Patrick’s Day Cupcake & Cookie Decorating Class at Masaryk Winery
Are you an art connoisseur? Even if you’re not, come out to Masaryk Winery to sip some wine and learn all of the skills you need to beautifully decorate baked goods for the holiday. This event is open to all ages, and supplies are included in the price of admission. Special supplies are even available for people with certain food restrictions like gluten-free or vegan. Tickets for the event are available on eventbrite.com. 

Last year, Tampa was named the fifth best city in the nation for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. This year, let’s make it first.