Best Family-Friendly Activities In Baltimore For St. Patrick's Day 2014

St. Patrick's Day is more than just a holiday where people wear green to avoid getting pinched, although that's part of it. It's an occasion to bring the family together to experience and learn more about the special customs and cultures of Ireland. Since St. Patrick's Day falls on a Monday this year, many family-friendly events are taking place in Baltimore the weekend prior on Saturday, March 15 and Sunday, March 16. Use this list as a guide to take part in the best holiday festivities and cultural enrichment in town, from parades to crafts and, of course, with lots of green in between.

59th Annual St. Patrick Parade
Charlest St. and Franklin St.
Baltimore, Md. 21201
www.irishparade.net

Date: March 16, 2014 at 2 p.m.

Every year, there's no better way for Baltimore families to be immersed in the music, song, dance and culture of the Irish than with the St. Patrick Parade. Starting at the Washington Monument and then continuing down Pratt Street to Market Place, the parade continues to attract thousands of spectators from around Maryland for more than 50 years. Whether you decide to sign up to march and share your Irish heritage, or sit back and be entertained by the parade's countless festivities, be sure to wear lots of green as this event's excitement is truly contagious. Also, plan extra time to enjoy a traditional Irish meal or drink at one of Baltimore's many Irish pubs that will be welcoming guests before, during and after the parade.

The Shamrock 5K
Charles St. and Franklin St.
Baltimore, Md. 21201
(410) 308-1870
www.irishparade.net/shamrock-5k

Date: March 16, 2014 at 1:15 p.m.

A heart-racing event for young and old, families are encouraged to run together this St. Patrick's Day and support the charity that organizes the popular St. Patrick Parade each year in Baltimore. The entry fee is $45 per person and open to the first 5,000 registrants, so early sign-up is a must. Runners get to wear neon green t-shirts and be cheered on by fellow parade goers as they run through downtown Baltimore. Afterwards, enjoy a post-race party which includes refreshments, snacks and live music at Market Place and Water Streets where the award ceremony will also be held.

Saint Patrick's Snakes
Robert E. Lee Park Nature Council
1000 Lakeside Drive
Baltimore, Md. 21209
(410) 887-4156
www.roberteleepark.org

Date: March 15, 2014 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For kids ages five and older and their families, the Robert E. Lee Park is the place to meet some friendly snakes and learn about nature this St. Patrick's Day. In honor of St. Patrick, who according to legends cast out the serpents from Ireland, children will have the opportunity to make a slithering craft to take home. The park also has almost 450 acres of land from wetlands to meadows and forests to explore. Registration is required in advance and there is a nominal fee of $3 per person (or $2 for members), so visit the website or call to sign up.

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Enoch Pratt Free Library
Cherry Hill Branch
606 Cherry Hill Road
Baltimore, Md. 21225
(410) 396-1168
www.prattlibrary.org

At the Cherry Hill Branch, families of all ages can come together and make a craft while learning about the different symbols connected with the Irish holiday. This event called "Shamrocks, Leprechauns, and Pots o' Gold" starts at 11 a.m. on March 15, 2014 and will even serve tasty Irish soda bread. At the Light Street Branch on March 15th at 3 p.m., parents and their children can listen to a live Celtic musical performance, which features unique instruments like the Irish flute, whistle and hammered dulcimer. Then on March 17 at 3 p.m., the Southeast Anchor Library is calling all leprechauns to participate in its St. Patrick's Day trivia game. Kids will enjoy testing their knowledge of the holiday and the chance to win prizes. There are many, many more activities and events being held at different branches throughout Baltimore so visit the Enoch Pratt's online events calendar to find the date and time that works best for your family's schedule.

James Joyce Irish Pub and Restaurant
616 S. President St.
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(410) 727-5107
www.thejamesjoycepub.com

At James Joyce, you feel as if you've been transported across the ocean to a comfortable and cozy Irish pub. Count on enjoying a happy family gathering any time of year, but especially so if you stop by for the St. Patrick's Day holiday. On March 9, 2014 at 3 p.m., families can stop by to show their support of the 59th Annual St. Patrick Parade to be held the following weekend. This fundraiser helps support all the merrymaking and activities that go into the parade each year. Also during March 15-17, there will be live Irish music playing from the afternoon to evening hours, a perfect time for families to stop by for a delicious meal and friendly atmosphere.

Keri Ann Beazell is a Baltimore writer following the latest developments in arts and culture, natural wonders, lifestyle and pets. She enjoys promoting thought-provoking discussions, education, new ideas and smiles among readers. Follow her online at Examiner.com