It’s often said that everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Green ale flows and forgetting to wear the holiday’s color can net you an uncomfortable pinch. But this is a day that Lawrence, KS has turned into something more. It’s a bit of a make-a-difference day.
Months in advance, organizers decide which local charities will benefit from the entry fees to participate in the parade. Local businesses compete for the best float, and in turn, gain some wonderful publicity.
This year, the Lawrence Arts Center, The Ballard Center and the County Fair Swim Club have been chosen as recipients of funds. Additional fundraisers have also been added.
In February, a Charity Benefit auction was held at Corpus Christi Church. It began with a silent auction followed by a live auction. In early March, organizers hosted Irish Road Bowling at Clinton Lake.
And no fundraising event would be complete without some type of marathon. In this case, it was the recent 5K Shamrock Shuffle Fun Run/Walk which ended with a pancake feed. And for those less into the physical effort, there was The Luck of the Irish Motorcycle Rally. A day was even set aside for the St. Patrick’s Day Queen Coronation.
What a great idea to have some fun, and benefit some worthwhile organizations. It’s always a plus when you can combine entertainment with making a difference for others, especially when it’s so easy! While enjoying the parade, double your good deeds by supporting local vendors and any stores that might be open. Afterwards, dine at any number of excellent eateries.
See the parade in downtown Lawrence beginning around 1:00pm on Sunday, March 17. The weather should be perfect.
For more information on the parade, and all things Irish, go to: http://www.st-patricks-day.com/st_patricks_day_parades_united_states_kansas.html. And for a special treat, check out the Irish cupcakes video and share them with your neighbors.
Erin go Bragh!
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