From the historical stone fences and the horse farms they surround, to a host of businesses on Upper Street — the Irish influence in Lexington is as deep as the Irish brogue is fast.
Since Sunday is St. Patrick’s Day (don’t forget your green) we’re taking a look at how we can celebrate Irish culture on this holiday + beyond.
Fun fact: City Editor Molly has dual citizenship with Ireland as her father was born + raised in Kilkenny.
The first-ever Lexington St. Patrick’s Day Parade was held downtown in 1980 and led by founder + longtime organizer Bill Enright. In September of that same year, the Bluegrass Irish Society was incorporated as a public, charitable, and educational organization.
The group — now led by Megan Moloney + Liza Hendley Betz — has been in charge of planning our St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival for decades. The festivities will take over downtown tomorrow, March 16 from 10:45 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the parade beginning at 1 p.m. Expect music throughout the day from the likes of William Sutherland Reid Pipes & Drums + Celtic Blue.
Among other vendors, including local businesses + nonprofits, the festival will feature performances from two Irish dance schools — McTeggart Irish Dancers + Bluegrass Ceili Academy. Interested in learning a jig yourself? The schools offer lessons for both children + adults.
Honor the Irish every day
You don’t have to limit yourself to just one day. There’s plenty of places to enjoy Irish culture every day in Lexington.
- Failte is your one stop-shop for all things Ireland. Think: Sweets, sweaters, Irish soda bread mix, crisps, and themed gifts.
- Take a tour and learn the rich horse history of Ashford Stud or Castleton Lyons.
- Find live music, watch Rugby, and grab a pint McCarthy’s or Molly Brooke’s.