Blog: Downtown Comes Alive with the Luck o' the Irish

It’s March, which means that St. Patrick’s Day is coming soon. According to an old Irish legend, leprechauns hide a pot of gold, and must give it up if they are  caught. While many are looking for that elusive little fellow to get rich quick,
perhaps a better way to find the luck of the Irish is to visit Downtown Westminster.  Throughout this month, there are ample ways to “get your Irish on.”

This coming weekend kicks off St. Patrick’s Day in a huge way at the , when Barleyjuice returns to town.  This Philadelphia-based Celtic
rock band will make Westminster shamROCK with two incredible performances on
Friday and Saturday nights.  Prepare to be impressed by the high-energy band members who each showcase their amazing skills at song and multiple instruments including guitars, banjos, fiddles, tin whistles, accordians, and bagpipes.  This kilt-wearing band is an absolute blast to watch and its performances simply cannot be topped.  Truth be told, this blogger is a bit of a, well, groupie, and I have all of the band’s CDs. You too will be instantly hooked by its original and cover tunes. My favorites are an ode to “Potatoes” and “What’s Up Yours?”, an award-winning tune that is an irreverent homage to the band’s kilts. 

If you are interested in tickets, act fast! The Saturday night show is already sold out, but as of this writing tickets are still available for Friday night. Tickets are $25 for adults and $23 for Arts Council members, seniors and students under 18. Contact 410-848-7272 for ticket information.

But if a loud Irish rock concert is not your thing, consider joining the running ranks.  On Saturday March 24, take a fun 3-mile fun run/walk at the second annual Celtic Canter. and Dr. Patrick Gallagher, DDS host this race through downtown Westminster, while the runners are serenaded by
bagpipes.  The race ends with a fun post-race gathering at O’Lordan’s, where the over-21 participants may be rewarded with a free beer. All proceeds of the event will benefit the Carroll County Children’s Fund, , and Target Community & Educational Services.  The registration fee is $20 online, and $30 onsite at the event. Call 443-789-2063 for more details.

Nothing says St. Patrick’s Day like Irish dancing. Visit the on March 24 to see the incredible Teelin Irish Dance Company, which is known for its fusion of traditional and contemporary Irish dance and music. The music will move you and the dancing will astound you.  The dancers will provide one performance at 3:00, and tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for Arts Council members, students and seniors. Call 410-848-7272 for more information.

Entertainment is one thing, food is another!  Stay tuned for an all-inclusive listing of great Irish food choices for St. Patrick’s Day in the Main Street Matters blog next Tuesday.  Until then, we’ll see you around Downtown!