St. Paddy's Day in Carlsbad: Green beer, trade show, live music and bowling
Sunday, March 17 Carlsbadians have a number of opportunities to celebrate the feast of the patron saint of Ireland.
Here is a look at some of the St. Patrick's Day weekend events.
Yucca Blossom starts 2024 showcase season in Carlsbad
Based in Artesia, Yucca Blossom offers vendors a chance to sell homemade items. Attendees can also sample meals from food trucks at the trade shows in southeast New Mexico, according to the company’s website.
At 9 a.m. March 16 and 11 a.m. March 17 at Top Nock Archery at 2101 South Canal in Carlsbad more than 80 vendors are slated for the opening showcase of the year, according to the Yucca Blossom website.
Cal's Shade Western offers free pool and hosts bowling tournament
Green beer and billiards are part of the St. Patrick’s Day offerings at the popular hangout on south Canal Street, said owner Shawna Calhoun.
More: 'The Shade' bar and bowling alley for sale as owner struggles with COVID-19 health orders
At 6 p.m. March 18, Cal’s Cactus Lanes hosts the “Shamrock Showdown” bowling tournament with proceeds benefitting United Way of Eddy County, according to Calhoun.
Those bowling must be 18 years of age and older and prizes will be awarded for individual bowlers and team members.
Milton's Brewing offers extended hours and music
At 2 p.m. March 17 at Milton’s Brewing at 213 West Mermod, the downtown Carlsbad brewery closes at 10 p.m., said Michele Robertson, events coordinator.
Green beer is on tap and entertainment is provided by Ft. Worth based artist Keegan McInore.
According to his website, McInroe offers a diverse musical playlist ranging from country to blues.
Some history of Saint Patrick
Saint Patrick was not Irish but was born in Great Britain near the end of the fourth century and was taken prisoner by Irish raiders when he was 16.
He spent six years in captivity in Ireland and eventually became a devout Christian.
Saint Patrick studied for the priesthood for 15 years. He incorporated traditional Irish culture and rituals into his religious practices.
St. Patrick's Day celebrated for centuries
Ireland and nearby countries in Europe started celebrating Saint Patrick since the ninth or 10th century, according to the History Channel.
He was never canonized by the Catholic Church and is most famous for standing on an Irish hillside ridding the country of all snakes.
According to the History Channel, research suggests snakes never had a home in Ireland.
More: Top o' the mornin'!: Local restaurants plan St. Paddy's Day celebration
“There are no signs of snakes in the country’s fossil record. And water has surrounded Ireland since the last glacial period,” according to the History Channel’s website.
Saint Patrick died on March 17, 461, which sealed the date for his celebration in Ireland and around the world.
USA Today reporters Clare Mulroy and Wyatte Grantham Philips contributed to this report.
Mike Smith can be reached at 575-628-5546 or by email at MSmith@currentargus.com or @ArgusMichae on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This article originally appeared on Carlsbad Current-Argus: St. Patrick's Day events in Carlsbad
