On Saint Patrick’s day, a cultural and religious holiday held on the March 17th, Santa Cruz erupts with Irish pride and good cheer. Stemming from roots in the early 1700’s, this holiday, named after the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick, celebrates the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, as well as Irish culture in general. Another tradition of this holiday, excessive partying and consumption of alcohol, came from the Lenten restrictions of eating and drinking alcohol being lifted for this day. Today, all over the world Saint Patricks day is seen as a day to celebrate Irish pride and heritage, something that is celebrated in Santa Cruz with many venues hosting Irish bands and restaurants serving traditional Irish food.
The Santa Cruz Saint Patrick’s Day music scene:
Details of bands can be found at http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/entertainment/ci_14653085
Tater Famine w/Northern Rail
When: Doors open at 8 pm, show starts at 9 pm
Where: The Crepe Place (429-6994, thecrepeplace.com)
Cost: $7
The Wild Rovers
When: 5-7:30 pm
Where: Crow’s Nest (476-4560, www.crowsnest-santacruz.com)
Cost: No cover charge
The Piping Circle
When: 1:30-3 pm
Where: Rosie McCann’s, 1220 Pacific Ave. (426-9930, www.lenihan.org)
Cost: Free
St. Patty’s Day Reggae Fest
When: Doors open at 8 pm, show starts at 9 pm
Where: Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way (479-1854, www.moesalley.com)
Cost: $25 in advance, $30 at the door
Saint Patrick’s Day Celtic Party
When: 7:30 pm
Where: Don Quixotes, 6275 Highway 9, Felton (603-2294, www.donquixotesmusic.info)
Cost: $12
Irish Singers at Malone’s
When: Evening
Where: Malone’s Grille, 4402 Scotts Valley Dr., Scotts Valley (438-2244, www.malonesgrille.com)
Cost: No cover
Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration
When: All Day
Where: Britannia Arms, 8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos (688-1233, www.britanniaarmsaptos.com)
Cost: No cover, cost depends on menu item
The Claw 