With its ties to the Emerald Isle, the Boston area is popular among fans of four-leaf clovers. Some of the best shamrock shenanigans happen in Cambridge. You have your pick of them with this (lucky!) set of seven:
1. Irish Whiskey Tasting at The Smoke Shop
Why wait until St. Patrick’s Day to soak up the luck of the Irish? On March 10, Redbreast Irish Whiskey is holding a tasting at The Smoke Shop. Afterward award-winning BBQ will be served. Between Redbreast whiskey and Smoke Shop BBQ, this event is aptly named Pot O’ Gold!
2. A Pre-Patrick’s Party at Beat Brew Hall
Get your green on with local folk band, Old Fox, on March 12. While they jam, you’ve got traditional Irish specials to choose from. You can wash down your corned beef and cabbage with an Irish pint or Tullamore Dew whiskey. Libations will be flowing throughout Beat Brew Hall’s Pre-Patrick’s Party.
3. Soccer Matches and More at The Rising
What’s more Irish than soccer? On March 14 and 16, Cambridge’s Irish gastropub calls you in for matches like Ireland Vs. France. Dig in as you watch a game or as you listen to the live music that’s also part of The Rising St. Paddy’s Fest. From March 13-14, hear The Blarney Boys play Irish favorites. Then on March 17, celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with For Folk’s Sake.
4. A Celtic Sojourn at the Wilbur Theatre
A St. Patrick’s Day Celtic Sojourn is one of Cambridge's annual traditions. WGBH radio host, Brian O'Donovan, showcases an unbelievable line-up of musicians and dancers at the Celtic Sojourn. The Murphy Beds, Kevin McCormack, Ashley-Wallace Smith and Keith Murphy will give you a taste of Ireland. This year's Cambridge performance has been relocated to the Wilbur Theatre in Boston.
5. The Lily Black Punk Pop Paddy's Party at Asgard
Don’t bother trying to name this party three times fast; just have fun. The Cambridge-based band, Lily Black, invites you to party with them on March 14. While rocking out to pop punk music, you can feast on Asgard’s signature Irish dishes.
6. Festive Revelry at Cambridge’s Oldest Pub
Color Saint Patrick’s Day weekend a Paddy green. Head to Paddy’s, the oldest family-owned pub in Cambridge. On March 14-15, DJ Oddzo will be spinning. It’s the perfect time to try Ruth and Irv’s homemade corned beef. Good times plus great stout will follow.
7. Authentic Irish Grub at Grafton Street
If you’re in Harvard Square on Saint Patrick’s Day, visit Grafton Street Pub. Grafton is named after a bustling cobblestone street in Dublin. Its March 17 menu will transport you there. This special menu includes Irish stout and cheddar fondue, Guinness beef stew, and soda bread pudding for dessert. “Irish Breakfast” is also a must-try cocktail on the menu.
