The St. Patrick's Day in Hartford is this Saturday, but it's much more than a parade.
When it ends at the Soldiers and Sailors Arch some people go home, while other people stay around for what one woman calls the aftermath.
"It's a little messy for sure, people out in the parking lots, just hanging out," Carla Piel said.
Hartford police said public drinking is prohibited.
"We know people are going to be drinking. What we want to encourage everyone to do is to be responsible with any drinking that they do," Lt. Brandon O'Brien said.
The parade starts at 11 a.m. on Capitol Avenue then loops through downtown and street closings begin at 9:30 a.m.
Jacqueline Farmer, of New Britain, hopes to be there.
"It's just a celebration of people that are happy to celebrate whether it be their culture, where they were born, race so it's a fun event," she said.
The Scene
The Thai restaurant, Siam Hartford, expects action.
"We're even trying to do a little bit of the Irish specials - no corned beef - but green beers and all that type of stuff," Nathan Senzo said.
A wholesaler was carrying six foot-long green bottle signs on Pratt Street beneath the Irish flag. Drinking, if not spirits, are part of going to the parade, veterans say.
"But it's kid friendly too," said Danielle St Amand, "so it's a good time.”
With temperatures of 65 degrees and no snow on the ground, extra people are expected.
New Haven's parade is Sunday afternoon beginning at 1:30 p.m.
