As one of America's most Irish cities, there's no shortage of opportunities to flaunt your Irish heritage here. And even if you can't trace your ancestry back to the Emerald Isle, as it says on the Guinness factory walls in Dublin, "Everyone is Irish on March 17th."

March 15

Celtic Invasion: Irish Boxing Match
Mar. 15, 7-11 p.m., Orpheum Theatre

Boxers bleed green this coming Saturday at the Orpheum Theatre. Some of Ireland’s famed fighters, Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan, Jonathan “Thunderbolt” O’Brien, Mike “The Storm” Sweeney, and Paddy Hyland, will take on their American counterparts in a historic match. Come and cheer on some of Ireland’s toughest boxers, or root for your hometown boys.

March 16

The Black Rose
Mar. 16-17, 6 a.m., The Black Rose, 160 State St.

The Black Rose opens its doors bright and early at 6 a.m., serving a full Irish breakfast. WFNX hosts an exclusive private performance by Louis the XIV, as well as plenty of games and giveaways. As usual, this renowned Celtic establishment will provide live Irish music all day long, and patrons are invited to join in with singing with such regulars as Sean Cunningham and the Celtic Clan.



Murphy’s Law
Mar. 16, noon-2 a.m.; Mar. 17, 10 a.m.-2 a.m., Murphy's law, 837 Summer St., South Boston

Don’t let this bar’s name deceive you. Murphy’s Law, named after the common belief that if anything can go wrong, it will, hosts a shindig that’s nothing short of the true Irish experience. Well known for its recent appearance in the film Gone Baby Gone, this Southie space is sure to be packed full of locals during the parade. Later, the bar will host live music by Chuck Whelan and Bob McDermott.

Southie’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2008
Mar. 16, 1 p.m., Broadway “T” Stop – Andrew Square

One of the city’s oldest holiday traditions. Watch traditional Irish marching bands and pipe bands take to the streets. The parade kicks off at Southie’s Broadway “T” stop and travels to Andrew Square, so there will be plenty of great spots to take in the action and live up your Irish heritage.

Ras na hEireann
Mar. 16, 11 a.m., Davis Square, Somerville

While hundreds of Bostonians are sharing in a pint, others will take to the streets in the Ras na hEireann U.S.A. 5 km road race. Known as the most genuine Irish race this side of the Atlantic, the Ras na hEireann is named after the original cross country run that has been held in Ireland for decades. All participants are welcome to dress in their finest Irish apparel.

Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance
Mar. 16th, 7 p.m., Lowell Memorial Auditorium

Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance has stepped its way into the hearts of millions. The show, based on an Irish folk tale of good versus evil, is an exciting and cultural way to celebrate the holiday.

Go on to the next page to see what's happening on the official St. Patty's Day...