St. Patty’s in Fort Lauderdale

So it’s that time of year to put on the green and throw a couple back. But where are the best spots to get your Irish on?

Well it depends on what you are looking for. If you are going for a 20 year old festival of debauchery- then head down to Himmarshee Village. The usual suspects will be packed and a hot mess express of fun.

Now- if you are feeling a little more grown up (or even if you are not) then I would recommend heading towards Riverwalk in downtown Fort Lauderdale the Saturday prior to the big day.  The city puts on a pretty great festival for the day – complete with traditional Irish music, step dancers, and cover bands.

There are a ton of vendors – beer, food, crafts, toys, etc – so you have everything you need all within a short walk. The crowd is very friendly and everyone is just there to have a good time.

The best part is that they have plenty to do for the kids and it is all (drumroll) FREE! I could not believe it either but you can put junior in a free bouncehouse or carnival ride and breathe a deep sigh a relief while enjoying an adult beverage.

Now- let’s talk about my favorite St. Patty’s day tradition. The Sunday prior to the big day we always go on the boat and stop for an Irish Car Bomb at Briny right there on the river. It is great way to toast my Irish roots and then head out for an afternoon of fun in the sun.

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Going over the tracks to LauderAle

Tucked away in the industrial section of Fort Lauderdale is a laid back brewery called LauderAle. There is only one way to describe this place: cool.

Walking into the bar area, you will instantly notice the unique hanging light bulbs, picnic tables, and open garage door leading to the corn hole and food trucks. Tucked away in the back are shiny brewing tanks bags of hops lining the walls.

LauderAle has some unique nautical touches. For example, the flights are propeller shaped and there is even a giant shark hanging from the ceiling.

The staff is very friendly. I would recommend just asking them for a bartender’s choice flight. Our bartender provided us with a wide variety of selections. He was even so kind to inform me that if there were any that I really didn’t like, he would be happy to replace them.

The most unique beer of the night was a habanero and mango beer called La Nina. Definitely worth a try.