St.Patty's Day that time of the year when no matter what line you come from you are Irish for the day, ok albeit a few million Brits may not but the majority of us folks who enjoy a celebration have "donated" the 17th of March each year to the Irish to celebrate their long and proud heritage with Green Beer, Folk Music and Packed Pubs.

Southern New England along with New York are perhaps the center of the American Irish Culture. Savannah, GA also boasts a large number of persons claiming Ireland as the "mother" country, but when one thinks of Irish American they think Boston & New York.

2008 will show an even greater number of events celebrating this day. Some events are in the xx decade year while others are having their "first annual". Among one of the newest events is that in New London, Conn. a seaside town known for it's Whaling past and history and a small city that counts more than 15% of its population as having Irish in the blood. Years without an official Irish Pub ended several years back when Hanafins Publick House  http://www.hanafinspub.com/ and http://www.nlirishparade.com/ 
opened on State Street and has become a favorite of local police and firemen as well as politicians and fans of guiness almost from the days prior to the doors opening. 2008 will feature their first annual Irish parade which will feature local politicians, bands, irish dance troupes and folk muscians as well as a congressman and well Mr.Hanafin himself.  Beginning at the Union Train Station in downtown New London the event will proceed up to Hanafins. "The little parade -- big party" will then kick off with a large tent, music and more... http://www.nlirishparade.com/music.shtml

Come on down and check out the festivities!

Nearby Mystic will host a parade as well but 2 weeks later on March 30th. More information can be found at :http://www.mysticirishparade.org/ and is ideal for families. Get out and be green!

Newport, RI again will have a parade that is growing with each year. This year to accommodate the weekend and the green beer will the parade be held on the the 15th , this Saturday... so if in Newport check it out. More information can be found at http://www.st-patricks-day.com/st_patricks_day_parades_united_states_rhode_island.asp 

Boston and  most importantly mentioned "South" Boston will have their annual parade. http://www.saintpatricksdayparade.com/boston/boston.htm in the heart of the Irish Community in Boston. A great time had by all and sometime believe it or not overshadowed by those in New York. However for a real local flavor check out this event and the Guiness will be a-flowin!

Portland, Maine will also offer a St.Patty's Day event... with food and entertainment on Saturday the 15th again to accommodate the green beer... More info can be found at http://www.irishofmaine.org/

Remember Enjoy Yourself and if Driving Do not drink and drive...

Erin Go Bragh from www.thenewenglandcoast.com