Since the 18th century, Americans have adopted St. Patrick’s Day as an unofficial celebration of all things Irish. This weekend, our state turns green in honor of the saint who drove the snakes out of Ireland.
Strap on your tennis shoes and get ready to run with the leprechauns for Oklahoma State University’s Lucky Leprechaun Glow Run on March 14th. The school’s Department of Wellness hosts this 5K fun run to benefit the Soles4Soles charity, an organization that fights poverty through the distribution of shoes to those in need. Though early registration closed on March 8th, runners can still register on Thursday from noon until 8:00 p.m. Participants will be given green glow paint and glow sticks to wave as they sprint through OSU’s campus. Not a runner? Not a problem. A DJ will be on site to keep the party going, and a ZumbaGLOW class is sure to entertain passersby. Leprechaun attire (neon green, anyone?) is encouraged.
If you prefer small creatures that come from a galaxy far, far away (instead of just across the Pond), Science Museum Oklahoma’s Bright Night of Star Wars may be for you. This family-friendly overnight event begins Friday at 6:00 p.m. and includes costumed characters, classes that teach Jedi mind tricks, and opportunities for you to harvest crystals for your light saber. There will also be an IMAX Dome film and a discussion on George Lucas’ green screen effects. Though the event will last all night (until 8:15 on Saturday morning), guests are welcome to stay late into the evening before returning home. If, however, you want to experience a full night in the museum, parts of the building will be set aside as designated sleeping quarters.
Looking for something slightly more Irish or low key? You can get a taste of the Celtic culture on the 15th in Norman. The Third Friday Celtic Night comes around just in time St. Patrick’s Day. Anyone is welcome to listen to the traditional Celtic tunes. And you can even try your hand at the medieval dancing. The entertainment begins at 8:00 p.m. at Sonder Music, Dance, & Art in Norman.
And for those looking for a traditional Americanized celebration of the green holiday, both a parade and cruise take place this weekend in Oklahoma City. The Saturday afternoon parade features decorated floats, clowns, and motorcycles. It starts at 5th Street and Broadway and continues throughout the downtown area. The Sunday evening St. Paddy’s Day cruise takes you down the Oklahoma River with the comfort of a climate-controlled cabin and light appetizers. The boat departs at 6:30, but a live bagpipe performance jump-starts the party at 6:00 at Meridian Landing. This event is for adults age 21 and over.
So what’s on your plate for the holiday weekend?
