St. Patrick’s Celebrations Descend on Downtown Palatine March 12

The excitement continues to build as the popular Irish pub and entertainment venue, Durty Nellie’s (180 N. Smith Street), prepares to bring back the beloved St. Patrick’s celebrations to downtown Palatine – after a two-year hiatus – this Saturday, March 12. The day’s festivities will include an all-new Traditional Irish Breakfast (830-1030am), a parade stepping off at 11 a.m. and a huge after party beginning at 12:30 p.m. to ring in the Irish holiday – and celebrate Durty Nellie’s 50th anniversary!

“We are humbled by the support of the community and the Village of Palatine throughout the last two years – after our devastating fire in 2019 that shut us down for 10 months and the ongoing pandemic that has challenged all hospitality businesses,” said Durty Nellie’s Owner Jimmy Dolezal. “The fact that we are celebrating our 50th year in business along with the world opening again are definitely causes for a full day of Irish fun and festivities!”

The all-new Traditional Irish Breakfast prepared by Chef Cory Haze will include rasher (Irish bacon), sausages, eggs, baked beans, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes, rye toast, Irish potatoes and choice of libation. Chef Haze has also created an Irish-inspired menu to be featured throughout the month of March to continue the celebrations that bring Durty Nellie’s back to its Irish roots.

The parade route steps off at Oak and Wood Streets in Palatine, with more than 40 entries, including businesses, organizations and individuals from throughout the northwest suburbs.

The after-party will launch with performances from the Trinity Irish Dancers – and follow with Irish music throughout the day - along with bagpipers. Musical performances will conclude with Wedding Banned wearing kilts at 9:30 p.m. Traditional Irish food will be available all day.

Area residents who want to continue the celebrations on St. Patrick’s day (Thursday, March 17) will enjoy Irish fare and music beginning at 12:30 p.m. Entertainment will again include the Trinity Irish Dancers, bagpipers and local Irish musicians. The day’s festivities will wrap up with the Sixteen Candles band doing a special performance at 9:30 p.m.

More 50th anniversary celebration events will include a performance from Pat McCurdy Thursday, March 10 and the Trinity Irish Dancers will be back, along with bagpipers starting at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays in March. The popular Durty Nellie’s Local Beer Fest will take place Saturday, March 19. And finally, Brass from the Past will perform Friday, March 25. Visit durtynellies.com for tickets and times.