One of Chicago’s most well-known traditions, the South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade, will kick off this year’s festivities with a pre-parade party to inspire the Spirit of Saint Patrick, Sat., Feb. 25, 3 to 8 p.m., 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 W. 115th St. The event will feature the selection of the South Side Irish Parade Queen, live Irish music, buffet food, beverages and much more.
Admission is $40 and includes a dinner buffet, draft beer and wine. Live music of Liam Durkin and 4Cast will be featured inside the Performance Hall. The celebration of Irish heritage will also offer a quieter approach with Irish traditional music sessions featuring Pat Finnegan and Friends. Proceeds from the fundraising event help offset operating expenses to produce the annual parade set for Sun., Mar. 12. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance on the Parade website, southsideirishparade.org.
“We are delighted to be bring back the South Side Irish kick-off party for the first time since 2020, a festive event that helps raise funds to keep our tradition alive of marching down Western Avenue,” said Marianne Rowan Leslie, co-chair of this year’s South Side Irish Parade Committee. “We also encourage families and businesses to consider purchasing a street pole banner as a great way to both honor your name and show your support for the Parade.” Banners can also be purchased at the parade website.
The South Side Irish Parade Queen, who will be announced at the party, will be prominently featured in the South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade, will ride in the downtown Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and have an entry in the Chicago Rose of Tralee Selection.
The parade is operated by the South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Heritage Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, where more than 100 volunteers work year-round to ensure this family-friendly celebration continues for future generations.
Visit southsideirishparade.org and the parade’s Facebook page for more information on the kick off party and the South Side Irish Parade.
