Happy St. Patrick's Day from Representative D'Amico!

As Chicago and Cook County prepare to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, state Rep. John D’Amico, D-Chicago, is encouraging people Thursday to take part in some of the family-friendly events that are being offered to residents.

“As a husband and father, it is important that families have an opportunity to celebrate this special holiday together and to make time for family activities,” D’Amico said. “St. Patrick’s Day is so integral to our community and plays such an important role in the daily lives of so many people. I want to make sure people celebrate responsibly and have a fun time honoring the Irish heritage.”

Locally, D’Amico is encouraging residents to attend the St. Patrick’s Day Festival this Saturday at the Irish American Heritage Center located at 4626 N. Knox Ave. in Chicago. The event will go from 1 p.m. until midnight. The celebration will feature activities for all ages including traditional and contemporary Irish music, dance and food. The following day, families can watch the 13th Annual Northwest Side Irish Parade that steps-off at noon. The parade route begins at 6333 W. Raven St. and goes from Neola to Northwest Highway and wraps up at Harlem Avenue. For more information about the parade or any other events, residents can go to www.northwestsideirish.org.

“The Irish American Heritage Center and the Northwest Side Irish Parade are just two of the many wonderful celebrations taking place in the city this weekend. I want to thank all of those who make sure the events are a success for their time and effort,” D’Amico said. “I encourage all families and residents of the northwest side to take some time this weekend and stop by one of these great events.”