St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, so it’s time to take a look at some fun things to do in the Cleveland area. I had about ten activities that look awesome, because let’s face it, Cleveland rocks. But I will narrow it down to three so that you all don’t fall asleep before the green beer even begins to flow.

For the adult Clevelanders, check out the Oberlin Inn’s St. Patrick’s Day Irish Murder Mystery. Located in Oberlin, the Inn offers a package that includes overnight accommodations, dining on an Irish Feast, and a fun-filled Jovialities Murder Mystery evening.

The Irish Murder Mystery will take place on Saturday, March 15 and begins at 5:00 PM. A cash bar will be available and St. Patty’s Day attire is recommended.

As far as the kiddies go, encourage their creative side with exposure to some Celtic art! Visit the Cleveland Children’s Museum for Great Artists: Shamrocks. The days are Wednesday, March 12; Friday, March 14; and Monday, March 17; all three events begin at 3:30 PM.

The Great Artists series explores works of Celtic art and encourages kids create their own masterpieces based on the examples of and techniques used by the featured artists. Geared toward kids ages 1 through 8, this looks to be both educational and fun.

For a St. Patrick’s Day event for the entire family, attend the annual Cleveland Irish Parade on Monday, March 17 at 1:04 PM. The parade will begin at the intersection of Superior Ave. and East 18th St., then will travel southwest on Superior Ave. to East Roadway. The parade will head northwest on East Roadway for one block; and then it will head northeast on Rockwell Ave. It ends at the intersection of Rockwell Ave. and East 6th St. This is a different route from years past, so be sure to check out a map of the new route.

Regardless of what you do to celebrate the history of the Irish, do it responsibly and with respect. Happy St. Patrick’s Day, and may the luck o’ the Irish be with ye throughout the year!

St. Patrick’s Day is known for wild celebrations and copious beer drinking. However, there are also plenty of tamer, more “kid-friendly” ways to enjoy this holiday. Some great spots exist around Austin to have a green-tinted beer and bring the little ones along as well (by “little ones” I am not referring to Leprechauns). Here are some of the best “family-friendly” picks for an Austin, Texas St. Patrick’s Day:

Visit Things Celtic, a store on 35^th street which is dedicated to (you guessed it) all things Celtic. The Saturday before St. Paddy’s, there will be great Irish bands playing all day. They also offer, Irish language lessons and a supervised children’s activity center with crafts and games. You can stock up on great Irish-themed gifts, trinkets, and CDs inside. This is a great way to celebrate the day with your whole family.

Another event you won’t want to miss is the 6^th Street Festival put on by the Celtic Cultural Center of Texas. This will be several blocks of fun, with authentic Irish bands, food, and merriment. Adult tickets cost $12 and children under 13 are free!

Don’t want to fight the crazy crowds? Why not start a St. Paddy’s Day tradition of your own….buy some spirited Irish music and decorations for your house. Then, get everyone involved in cooking a meal made entirely of green food (feel free to get out the green food dye!). Be creative and have fun!

Does your family have any unique St. Patrick’s Day traditions?