by Maren Dougherty - 200 Reviews - 32 List
On March 17, green living has nothing to do with hybrids and everything to do with pints of clover-colored beer. Whether you want to rock like U2 or party like Colin Farrell, here are some San Diego spots where you're guaranteed to have a Guinness-filled good time. (Photo courtesy of The Field)
Updated: April 08, 2010
With green beer, go go dancers, and 60,000 square feet of green Astroturf, it's not exactly the most authentic party in town but it'll be the biggest. The Gaslamp Quarter's shamROCK festival starts at 4pm on March 17 with three stages of entertainment by the Young Dubliners, Irish step dancers, and hip hop DJs for those who can't jig all night. Tickets ($20 advance/$25 at the door) can be purchased at The Field downtown.
Citing Flogging Molly and Dropkick Murphys as their major music influences, the St. Patrick's Day Bash headlining band Lexington Field will provide high energy Irish music with guitar, drums, fiddles, and a banjo. Openers include Geezer, a local Weezer cover band.
The Irish holiday may fall mid-week this year but if that doesn't dissuade you from getting your party on, go to this Ocean Beach spot that serves specialty drinks ranging from the Shamrock Shot (Malibu rum, Blue Curacao, and OJ) to the Jig (vodka, apple pucker, and Rockstar).
Hooley Fest starts at 4pm at each of the bar's locations in La Mesa and Rancho San Diego. Entertainers include ZOO2, a U2 cover band, and the kilted California Celts. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.
Brush up on a few Irish classics and you're sure to bond with some new mates by the piano bar at this steak house and bar in Mission Valley.
You'll need to arrive by early afternoon to avoid a block-long line at this Adams Avenue Irish bar or The Ould Sod across the street. But if you're lucky enough to get inside, you'll be greeted with a friendly smile and an excellent pint of Guinness.
On Saturday, March 13, visit Balboa Park for a Celtic village, beer gardens, and performances by local Irish dancers in a festival organized by the Irish Congress of Southern California. Held in conjunction with the festival, the St. Patrick's Day Parade will begin at 11am beginning at 6th and Laurel.
