Saint Patrick's Day Parade, Springfield MO

SPRING BREAK 2018 

SATURDAY, MARCH 17TH

Rise and shine, its time to start Spring Break 2018, which also happens to be St. Patrick’s Day. One of the best ways to kick off the celebration is with a pint of coffee and Irish cream, I must say one of my favorite places is the Neighborhood Diner in Harrison, AR (1112 North Main Street). The nostalgia oozes as soon as you walk in the front door.

Today we are going to head to Springfield, Mo to partake in one of my favorite traditions— A St. Patrick Day’s Parade, now there are a lot of parades all over the country, but this one happens to be just right for my family. Here is the link: http://www.springfieldstpatsparade.com/ It’s not to big or too small, it is just the right size to enjoy without being shoulder to shoulder with soused parade goers.

The parade route, for 2018 as most years, goes through Park Central Square, which has great viewing spots. There is also free parking not too far away. The parade itself has all of the musts —- candy, necklaces, coins, the free occasional tee shirt, and most of importantly great floats. The parade time this year starts at 2:00 and it will take about an hour to reach Park Central Square. As for bathrooms, make sure you go before you go. Most places on the Square don’t have bathrooms open to the public. There are some port-a-potties if you can find them.
                                                                   

After the parade, you can visit the History Museum, it will teach you all about the history of Springfield, Mo. You can learn more at its website: https://historymuseumonthesquare.org
There is an exhibit on the birthplace of Route 66, which is worth checking out.  The actual entrance to the museum is under the Fox sign. There are also a couple of places to grab a real pint in case that is on your bucket list.

Additional Pictures from the Parade:

It really is a great St. Patrick's Day parade for kids and grown-ups alike.