HALIFAX – The threat of another miserable Winter storm did nothing to deter St. Patrick’s Day revellers in Halifax. Even though Saturday’s parade was cancelled because of the thick ice and high snowbanks lining city streets – the celebrations went on as usual on Tuesday.
Patrons were lined up outside Finbar’s Irish Pub in Bedford before it opened at 11:00 A.M. They quickly made their way in to grab a seat before they filled up. Most people were dressed with a wee bit of green – there were green shamrock neckties, and big green bow ties.
One woman was handing out stickers saying ‘Kiss me I’m Irish.’ Another woman was celebrating her birthday on St. Patrick’s day, and guess what her first name is: Pat.
“It could be Patti today yes,” says Pat Lefebvre, “but when I was born on St. Patrick’s Day, my mother already had Patricia picked out for me and I managed to arrive on St. Paddy’s Day just to fit it in.”
Okay, after that it must be time for a green beer.
“I’m really not a beer drinker,” says Marjorie Dow, “but if I was going to come on St. Patrick’s Day, my beer had to be green.”
Stephanie McEwan was kicking up her heels with an Irish dance.
There was a long lineup all day to get into the Old Triangle in Halifax. Inside, the ladies were enjoying an afternoon of fine music and beer. There was plenty of good cheer to go around and nothing but smiles everywhere. One lepricaun, with a wink, says he grew his red beard today. The pub is one of several that opened early for a traditional irish breakfast. One man with the word ‘Ireland’ on his jacket, admitted that he was really a Newfoundlander.
But there was at least one man from Ireland in the crowd, who was enjoying himself. “She’s a good time,” says Neill Carr, “She’s a bit different from back home, but she’s good. She’s good. Everybody’s here to enjoy themselves. ”
The group “Flashback” played at the Fairview Legion where many of the patrons dressed up – some in their finest St. Paddy’s day attire. It just goes to show, St. Patrick’s Day is not just for the young, but the young at heart.
“I really enjoy St. Patrick’s Day every year,” says Wanda Davis. She adds, “I enjoy everyday, every year, all year because life is to be enjoyed.”
She wasn’t the only one having a good time. Many partied into the wee hours of the morning.
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