St. Patrick’s Day will be here faster than a leprechaun can trick you out of a Pot O’ Gold! But you don’t need to find the end of a rainbow to fill your bank account this March. Save money instead with these low-cost and free family activities that are sure to put some shamrocks in your shuffle.
Shamrockin’ Along the Fox River: If you and your family are athletically inclined, you can don all your festive green things and enjoy this 8K racecourse along the Fox River. The run kicks off at 9 am on Saturday, March 11th. Don’t forget to use the link to pre-register and don’t wait, this event fills up fast! There is a $55.00 fee.
Pot of Gold Stroll: Not a runner? Kids too young to handle an 8K? Why not try a leisurely stroll around Mount St. Mary’s Park instead? This event is free, but you must register in order for your kids to claim their special leprechaun prize at the end. Unfortunately, this event fills up crazy fast and looks like it’s already sold out but that doesn’t mean you can’t look for it next year and nothing says you can’t still go for a nice walk and look for the shamrocks, pots of gold, and leprechauns anyway. Event takes place on Saturday, March 11 at 10 am.
Shamrocks and Rainbows: Saint Charles Library is offering this free crafting event on Friday, March 10 from 6-6:30 pm for kids ages 3-6 years. They ask that you do use the link provided to register in advance due to capacity restrictions.
Fuzzy Shamrock Rings: Geneva Library is offering this free craft for toddlers to middle schoolers on Tuesday, March 7 10:30-11:30 a.m. It’s free and you can just drop in.
Leprechaun Hat Blowers: Geneva Library is offering this crafting event on Thursday, March 9th from 10:30-11:30 am for toddlers through middle schoolers. It’s also free and drop in.
Popsicle Stick Shamrock Trucks: Geneva Library is offering this craft event on Tuesday, March 14 from 10-11:30 am for toddlers through middle schoolers. It’s free and drop in.
Leprechaun Garden: Geneva Library is offering this craft event on Thursday, March 16 from 10-11:30 am for toddlers through middle schoolers. Free and drop in.
St. Charles, Il St. Patrick’s Day Parade: You can start your festivities as early as 11 am with the opening festival where you can see an Irish dancing demonstration. There’s also photo ops, a scavenger hunt, and special deals around town to partake of while you wait for the parade to start at 2 pm. All events take place on Saturday, March 11.
Chicago River Dyeing: If they can dye the Chicago River green once a year, why can’t they dye it blue the rest of the year? I kid, but seriously, if you have older kids and are up for a bit of a drive you can witness the yearly tradition of turning the Chicago River a festive shade of bright green. Plan on being at the Chicago River between Colombus Drive and State Street by 9 am on Saturday, March 11. Don’t forget to take public transportation or give yourself ample time for parking.
Hope you and your family find a pot o’ fun this St. Patrick’s Day!
Cheers!
Love,
Marie
The thrifty-momcom 