Welcome spring’s arrival with a bit o’ green

Spring is in our sights and the region is ready for its embrace. The arrival of St. Patrick’s Day on Thursday, March 17, is always a welcome harbinger of the season. Get ready to step into some of the lively celebrations nearby, enjoy some parades to follow in a festive tribute to the Old Country, starting this weekend.
Hofstra University is ready to salute St. Patrick’s Day, at its annual Irish Festival on Sunday, 11 a.m-5 p.m. The popular family event — a beloved local tradition — features music and entertainment and activities for the kids, along with Irish merchandise for sale and cuisine from the Emerald Isle to sample.
“Over 30 years ago Hofstra held its first festival celebrating its Dutch Heritage, known today as the Dutch Festival. Out of this idea and desire to celebrate heritage, Hofstra University created the Irish Festival along with local cultural groups, which is now going on its 18th year,” says Jessie Garcia, festival coordinator. “The presence of local cultural organizations, vendors selling Irish products, with the food and music make this an authentic and enjoyable experience.”
The Black Velvet Band, always a festival favorite, kicks things off at 11 a.m., with their take on traditional Irish music performed by Jimmy Walsh, Jimmy Lavin and Mickey Peare. The acclaimed McLean Avenue Band follows, at 1 p.m., led by singer-songwriter Padraig Allen, with renowned accordion player Buddy Connolly, among the band’s eclectic mix of talents.