Saint Patrick’s Day festivities begin this weekend and carry on right through the next. See chicagoreader.com for listings through 3/18. The South Side Irish Parade begins at noon on Sunday, March 11, at Western and 103rd and travels south on Western to 114th. Daylight saving time starts the night before, so don’t forget to spring forward, or you may miss your bus. The dyeing of the Chicago River kicks off Saint Patrick’s proper at 10:45 AM on Saturday, March 17, and is best viewed from the Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive bridges. The downtown parade follows, starting at noon at Balbo and Columbus and proceeding north on Columbus to the viewing stand in front of Buckingham Fountain. Many (if not most) bars not listed here also feature themed drinks and activities all week long. –Brian Nemtusak
Gareth Woods Band Traditional food and drink available. a 10 PM, Fado, 100 W. Grand, 312-836-0066. F
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Bus to the South Side Irish Parade Buses leave from 9:30 AM-10:30 AM and return after the parade; includes beverages en route. a 9:30 AM, Glascott’s, 2158 N. Halsted, 773-281-1205, $20.
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Bus to the South Side Irish Parade Buses leave at 10 AM and return at 3:30 PM. BYOB; reservations required, 773-868-8073. a 10 AM-4 PM, Redmond’s, 3358 N. Sheffield, 773-404-2151, $10.
Bus to the South Side Irish Parade Buses leave from 10 AM to 11 AM and return after the parade; includes beverages en route and breakfast beforehand. a Emmit’s, 495 N. Milwaukee Ave, 312-563-9631, $30.
Bus to the South Side Irish Parade Buses leave at 11 AM and return at 3:30 PM. BYOB; reservations required, 773-868-8073. a 11 AM-4 PM, McGee’s Tavern and Grille, 950 W. Webster, 773-868-8073, $10.
