Paint It, Green

It's no coincidence that Irish Fest on Flagler takes place the weekend before St. Patrick's Day. In fact, it has less to do with the luck of the Irish than a simple case of smart party planning – it’s a win-win opportunity for everyone. Gaelic aficionados can focus on the event’s cultural aspects in a family-friendly atmosphere; that means little cousin Jimmy and great Aunt Imelda are invited. And for the more party-minded festival-goers (e.g., beer and whiskey enthusiasts), they have two weekends in March to get their drink on.

Of course, you don’t need to be hammered to enjoy the long list of entertainers performing both days. Irish Fest features two stages worth of performers, including the Prodigals, Derek Warfield and the Wolfe Tones, Black 47, Noel Kingston, comedian Hal Roach, and many more. In addition, there’s a marketplace full of authentic Irish artists, crafts, and vendors, traditional dancers, bagpipes, an international food court, and a Gaelic Mass (at 11 a.m. Sunday). The event takes place Saturday and Sunday at the Meyer Amphitheatre (corner of Flagler and Datura streets, West Palm Beach). Saturday hours are noon to 11 p.m.; on Sunday, it’s noon to 8 p.m. (Yes, Monday’s a work day.) Tickets cost $12 to $15. Admission is free for children 14 and under. Call 954-946-1093, or visit www.irishflorida.org.
March 18