St. Patrick’s Day Training Begins Now

They say March comes in like a lion and leaves like a lamb. But you could also make a case that it arrives like a leprechaun and goes out like that same leprechaun, badly in need of a hot shower, some clean clothes, and a very long nap.

The Christmas season goes on and on, but in terms of extended celebrations, St. Patrick’s Day quietly gives for its money. It basically lasts for the duration of the month.

Are you ready to lean into your real or imagined Irish heritage? Good. The road has already risen to meet you, and it leads to Milwaukee.

The fun starts on Saturday, March 2nd, with the 15th annual Shamrock Shuffle benefitting the Special Olympics of Wisconsin and presented by your pals at Drink Wisconsinbly. It’s billed as the biggest St. Patrick’s Day-themed party in Wisconsin and happens in four neighborhoods around the city.

The celebration continues on Saturday, March 9th, with the 56th Annual Shamrock Club of Wisconsin St. Patrick’s Day Parade, featuring over 100 entries. The route winds through downtown and ends on Highland Avenue, just a few short blocks from the Drink Wisconsinbly Pub.

You’ve got a few days to fluff and fold your green DW t-shirt before the big day arrives. It falls on Sunday this year so you could rest up on Saturday. Maybe enjoy some Lucky Charms and a Shamrock Shake. Or, if you’re fully committed to the bit, you can get in a few more reps on St. Patrick’s Day Eve. After all, practice makes perfect.

Now, the calendar finally reads March 17th. The holiday you’ve been celebrating for over two weeks has actually arrived. You’ll need to dig deep and power through. Like John L. Sullivan answering the bell in the 76th round of his championship fight against Jake Kilrain back in 1889. You cannot give up now.

Before you know it, the holiday itself will have passed, but March isn’t over. You’ll inevitably find yourself in a place with their St. Patrick’s Day decorations still up and a special on their remaining green beer. You’re a weary leprechaun by this point, but with a twinkle in your eye, you’ll remind yourself that you can rest in April.