Despite the southern sweet tea and slang of Tuscaloosa, one may be surprised to discover the college town is actually close to percent Irish. Therefore, many students and residents may look forward to celebrating their heritage this March 17. Whether you’re looking for activities for children or adults, this guide looks to provide a little bit of everything green.
Head to the Free
This might be the obvious go-to, but Innisfree offers much more than an Irish pub. While the Birmingham location will be hosting its “24 Hours of Madness” from March 17 at 6 a.m. to March 18 at 6 a.m., the Tuscaloosa location will open its doors at 7 a.m. to kick off its 19th St Patrick’s Day Celebration. The celebration will host live music all day long for all ages, and drink specials with Jameson, Guinness and more for those 21 and older. With traditional Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie, fish & chips, Guinness poached Irish sausage and a George Shaw burger, it’s tough to turn down the pub’s St. Patrick’s Day cuisine and music.
Search for Shamrocks
On the other hand, the Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa will allow kids of all ages to search for shamrock coins in the museum throughout the day. The coins can be exchanged for prizes, and all activities are included in the admission price. With three stories of exhibits children can touch, play with and feel, the museum looks to offer a fun St. Patrick’s Day afternoon for children and parents.
Did someone say free t-shirts?
As the UA Baseball team takes on Missouri at 6:30 p.m., rumor has it they’ll have a St. Patrick’s Day Alabama baseball t-shirt giveaway. Grab yourself a t-shirt and enjoy the evening’s game this holiday alongside fellow student fans and Tuscaloosa residents alike.
Try your luck on the Bama Belle
Recently re-opened, the Bama Belle Paddlewheel Riverboat will be setting sail this St. Patrick’s Day. Hosting a BBQ cruise starting at 7 p.m., the boat will spend an evening on the water catered by Full Moon BBQ. Although it’s not your traditional St. Patrick’s Day, it could certainly be a memorable one on Tuscaloosa’s Riverboat alongside friends and family.
Find Your Own 4-Leaf Clover
With numerous parks around Tuscaloosa, including the Tuscaloosa River Walk, pack yourself an Irish-themed lunch with potato salad, sausage and cheese. Throw on some Celtic music and enjoy the company of family or friends, there’s always the chance you could discover a 4-leaf clover to finish out the day.
