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Irish Fun for Wee Ones, and More Around Oakdale

St. Patty's Day isn't just for adults.

Posted Wed, Mar 16, 2011 at 3:09 am CT|Updated Wed, Mar 16, 2011 at 10:09 am CT

Since your kids can’t celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the way most adults do, here are some fun St. Patrick’s Day activities to enjoy as a family.

When/Where: Friday, March 18 from 10 – 11 a.m. at the Maplewood Nature Center
Why Go: A puppet show featuring a skunk named Iris followed by a naturalist-led hike will get everyone thinking spring. Besides, it is supposed to be warm this week, so get out and enjoy it!
Geared Toward: 3- to 8- year-olds with an adult.
Price: $2 per child. (Prepay by March 17)

When/Where: Thursday, March 17 at noon in downtown St. Paul. (See website for parade route.)
Why Go: If you’re Irish or want to be for the day, celebrate with plenty of green and shamrocks. Keep an eye out for a leprechaun or two (or three).
Geared Toward: The whole family—this is billed as a family-friendly parade.
Price: Free, but you will need to pay for parking.

When/Where: March 18 & 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the James J. Hill House
Why Go: You couldn’t hear Irish music in a much more unique setting. This concert includes many of your favorite Irish folk tunes and is followed by a reception and tour of the house.
Geared Toward: 6 years old to adult, but would probably be best for the older school-age child or high school student.
Price: $10-14 per person. Call for reservations: 651-297-2555.

When/Where: Sunday, March 20, at 2 p.m. at
Why Go: Harmonic Relief is a show choir made up of East Metro residents who will get your toes tapping and put a smile on your face. Your kids may even break out their dance moves!
Geared Toward: The whole family—bring Grandma and Grandpa too!
Price: Free.

Plan Ahead: Spring Fling

When/Where: Saturday, March 26 from 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. at the Maplewood Community Center
Why Go: If it is still too muddy to play outside, this will get them in the mood without all the dirty clothes. Games, crafts and a performance by the kids band the Bunny Clogs will put grins on everyone’s face. You can drop the munchkins off for some supervised fun and enjoy an afternoon out!
Geared Toward: 4- to 12- year olds.
Price: $15 per child. Call 651-249-2230 to register.