Curious Parents Places to Go

We’re All a Wee Bit Irish In March
By Carol Reed

The Irish heritage of New Jersey and Pennsylvania is far reaching; approximately 20 percent of the population traces roots to Ireland. So, it’s no wonder that the spirit of Erin radiates through our area in March, with celebrations that welcome everyone to join in the “wearin’ of the green.”

Start out your month with a Saint Patrick’s parade in Belmar, NJ on March 6, where 5,500 marchers and 40 bands will strut down Main Street. Many bands include bagpipes. You can indulge in some traditional Irish fare in eateries such as Patrick’s Pub and the Boathouse. If you’re looking to extend the day, follow the crowds that spill over into the neighboring towns of Spring Lake and Avon--often called the “Irish Riviera.” Contact the Belmar St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, PO Box 331, Belmar, NJ 07719 732.280.2648

A visit to The Historic Village at Allaire in Farmingdale, NJ is a step back in time, allowing people to experience life in a 19th century bog iron mining community. On March 6, The Historic Village will present an 1830s St. Patrick’s celebration. Irish residents will commemorate their heritage with ethnic music, dance, and festivities, while villagers in period costume (blacksmiths, carpenters, and songsters) demonstrate their skills to visitors. Youngsters aren’t left behind as they get the chance to join the fun and learn what life was like in the 1830s at the same time. www.allairevillage.org 

The Irish of Philadelphia began celebrating St. Patrick’s Day as early as 1771. That’s six years before the Declaration of Independence was signed! There have been over 230 continuous years of celebrations. The Philly parade, hosted by the St. Patrick’s Day Observance Association, steps off March 13. This colorful, music-filled gala honors religious and cultural aspects of the city’s Irish. Thousands of marchers and spectators in their green finery will cheer as bands, floats, and flags highlight one of the grandest parades in a city that loves them.

Other parades around the region: www.saintpatricksdayparade.com/index.htm 

Saturday, March 5th  New Jersey: Hoboken & Nutley

Sunday, March 6th New York: Queens, Staten Island

Saturday, March 12th New Jersey: Atlantic City, Morristown, Seaside Heights, Trenton

In solemn memory of the Great Irish Famine, Philadelphia has established The Irish Memorial National Monument at Front and Chestnut Streets. The bronze sculpture by Glenna Goodacre, the artist who sculpted the Vietnam Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C., sits in a 1.75 acre park. The monument of 35 life-sized figures measures 30 feet long and 12 feet high. It captures the determined spirit of people who died and of those who arrived safely in America to face the challenges of a new life.

The Commodore Barry Club of Philadelphia, also known as the Irish Center, is dedicated to the promotion of Irish Culture. It offers weekly lessons in music and dance for young and old and presents authentic Irish musical concerts. The facility is located in the Mount Airy, Germantown area of Philadelphia at Emlen St. & Carpenter Lane. For information on programs, call John Nolan at 215-843-8051.

Dine at the Irish Pub of Atlantic City, because no Irish experience would be complete without authentic food and beverages. This historic site has served genuine and VERY reasonable meals for years. Located at 164 St. James Place and the Boardwalk, it is decorated in dark wood and antique newspapers line the walls. Or stop in at the sister restaurants in Philadelphia to find Dublin mixed with all-American. Décor includes turn-of-the-century hand-carved cherry wood and period tile. The booths are adorned with sports, theater, and political memorabilia. Choose from two Locations: 1123 Walnut St. (215) 925-3311, or 2007 Walnut St. (215) 568-5603.

The interior of the Porter House Restaurant in Montvale, NJ was crafted in Ireland, reassembled here, and then filled with Irish antiques. St. Patrick’s celebrations run through most of March with live and recorded Irish music. Special meals, including full Irish breakfast with traditional brown and/or soda bread are served. For more information, call 201-307-300 www.porterhouseusa.com.

The entire family can share in the Irish heritage celebrations throughout our area, and that's no BLARNEY.

Carol Reed is a middle school teacher and freelance journalist who specializes in travel writing. Carol’s journeys have taken her as close to home as the New Jersey Pines and as far as the islands in the Caribbean, New Zealand and Australia.