While not everyone celebrates St. Patrick’s Day, those who do take it seriously, there is no better place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than on Emerald Isle, North Carolina! St. Patrick’s Day is easily one of the top upcoming events in the Atlantic Beach area. The day’s events include many things to do – opportunities to drink, socialize, listen to live music, and more. Even if you have a family with children, there are still activities, especially for you!
History
Many people wonder why Emerald Isle was given such a unique name. Astute observers will note the connection to Ireland, nicknamed the Emerald Isle. However, the truth is that after the island was purchased from Mrs. Anita Fort Maulik of Philadelphia in 1954, developers hired a consultant to fly over the island. He saw an emerald jewel amid the ocean from the air and declared the island would be called the “Emerald Isle.”
Still, even though Irishmen did not find the island, the honorary connection remains, and St. Patrick’s Day, which traces its origins to at least the 9th century, is taken seriously on Emerald Isle. Festivities occur across the island, with businesses, restaurants, and bars finding ways to celebrate.
Attendance
After two years of canceled activities due to COVID-19, the festival is finally back! It returns on Saturday, March 12, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Emerald Plantation shopping center.
The fun officially starts on Friday, March 11, with armband night for amusement rides. For just $17 per armband, you receive unlimited turns on amusement rides from 5-10 p.m. at Emerald Plantation. This festival is the perfect activity for families with children! Although, there will not be any vendors this first night.
The main attractions begin on Saturday and feature live music, a beer garden, arts and crafts vendors, food, and amusement rides. This year Chain Reaction Sports and professional BMX rider Alex Johann will give a special sports demonstration.
In addition to this, live musical acts will include The Mad Fiddler, Spare Change, Ashley Larue Band, My Three Kilts, Monika James Band, and Heartstop. Buy a beer while listening to the music; all proceeds will benefit the Emerald Isle Business Association. The beer garden will be open at 10 a.m. to those 21 and older with valid identification.
Plan Your Visit!
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Visit the Tipsy Turtle Tavern
There’s no more traditional way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than in a tavern for adults! The Tipsy Turtle Tavern would make any Irishman proud. This little beach bungalow offers all your top-shelf beverages with sports entertainment. The place is also dog-friendly, so you can take your four-legged friend along to celebrate the occasion!
A rotating list of drinks include economically priced beers, Moscato wine, cocktails, shooters, whiskey, kamikaze shots, and more. During the St. Patrick’s Day Festival, the tavern is sure to offer special discounts and limited-edition drinks. Be sure to visit during the height of the festivities to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the right way!
Return to Your Atlantic Beach Rental
After the festivities, you’ll undoubtedly need a place to spend the night. Our Atlantic Beach, NC rentals provide the perfect combination of luxury and comfort. If you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day a little too hard, you can rest assured that you will have a safe place to return home. Our vacation rentals are among the best places to stay in Atlantic Beach, and we guarantee top-notch quality for all of our rentals. Contact us today to start planning your St. Patrick’s Day vacation to North Carolina!
