🍀 Sláinte, TBAY. (that means cheers in Irish)

Get ready to paint the town green, or rather, the river green, at the River O' Green Fest. This annual St. Patrick's Day celebration, on Friday, March 17, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., is a must-see event for anyone looking to join in on some TBAY traditions and shenanigans.

What's the secret behind the Hillsborough River's Kelly green and emerald waters? It's all thanks to the magical leprechauns who work their mischief + turn the river green with a special non-toxic, biodegradable dye. (Technically, it's a boat that sprays out green stuff, not leprechauns... but we wish.)

But the St. Patrick's Day fun doesn't stop there.

The River O' Green Fest features a jam-packed schedule of free events at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park (600 N. Ashley Dr., Tampa), from live music performances to the Annual Pet Costume Contest. And let's not forget about the mouth-watering food and drinks, including green beer.

*The festival was originally Saturday, March 18

Four-legged friends must be hulked out. | Photo via @cityoftampa

Who's performing?

Two different five-piece bands will take the stage throughout the day

Paddy O'Furniture | Irish sing-along band
Irish Buskers | Not-so-traditional Celtic music

Looking for a snack?

On top of the traditional Irish fair, there's also an eclectic array of eats like:

🍧 Whatever Pops
🥪 The Melt Machine
🏛 The Greeks Food Truck
🌮 St. Pete Taco Lady
🍢 Jersey Kabobs
🥩 The Brisket Shoppe
🧁 JB’s Sweet Addiction

Feeling adventurous? Take a scenic boat ride down the river, where you can soak up all the green goodness from a unique perspective on the Pirate Water Taxi.

For updates on the event, check this Facebook page.