St. Pat's In Seaside

Among the best times I’ve had in my life were days at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Seaside Heights. I remember wearing a kilt one year and marching in the parade with what I thought were sweet little old ladies constantly lifting up my kilt…fortunately I was warned in advance and wearing shorts underneath. It is a truly festive occasion, enjoyed by Irish and non-Irish, young and old. It’s also a day which marks the end of winter as regardless of the weather you know that spring and summer are on the horizon.

To me Klee’s Bar & Grill is the place to be on parade day. Sure it’s crowded and crazy whether you’re inside or outside but it’s just a fun place with a lot of friendly people. You’ll see some wild outfits as well and there will be no shortage of green although frankly I always thought green beer was for rank amateurs.

The 24th edition of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade steps off at noon and begins in Seaside Park and heads north on the boulevard through Seaside Heights.
Sure it will be chilly but if you dress warm you’ll be able to watch all the marchers, bands and floats. Seaside Heights wakes up on parade day and there are plenty of places to eat either before or after and you can be sure that many people will take their first stroll of the season on the boardwalk which comes alive this weekend with the Palm Sunday egg hunt the following day.

Of course Saturday is really the start of the St. Patrick’s Day celebration for many with big day being Monday. While Klee’s is at the top of my list this time of year there are plenty of places in which you will be with a lot of friends if “you’re wearin’ the green” like the Crab’s Claw Inn in Lavallette, Caffrey’s Tavern in Forked River and Mulligan’s Bar & Grill in Toms River. Wherever you do go be smart, plan ahead and have a grand time.
“Erin Go Bragh.”