This St. Patrick's Day, Muncie residents are welcoming the color green after the long white-out of winter.
Businesses are celebrating the holiday and offering unique activities to students and residents alike.
For those both over and underage, local bistro Vera Mae's, located in downtown Muncie off South Walnut Street, is celebrating with something Irish culture is known for. Their "St. Patrick's Day Shenanigans" consists of poetry, music, literature and limericks starting at 5 p.m. The festivities include native celebrated jazz singer Jackie Allen, Lafayette Irish dancer Judith Risler and The Phil Cooley Trio featuring Paul Owen, among other acts.
Aside from performing, Allen is hosting and producing the event. Fellow participant Roger McConnel of the 22 piece music group America's Hometown Band, sparked her involvement in the event. Allen was also interested in the event because she grew up listening to her father's Irish music collection.
Allen said people may learn about a new culture by attending.
"If you are looking for an Irish 101 lesson, come here," she said. "It's going to be an informative, but really fun, experience. The sheer number of people participating is what makes it stand out. So many musicians are going to be there.
"You'll be surrounded by great music and there'll be traditional toasts and readings in between songs, it's going be a very, very big event."
Vera Mae's will feature an authentic Irish menu including corned beef and cabbage, Irish soda bread, Shepherd's pie and Irish stew.
"It's going to be a traditional celebration and enjoyable for everyone," David Franklin, Vera Mae catering coordinator, said. "This is the first time we've ever done anything of this sort."
The Village is also getting into the Irish spirit.
Scotty's Brewhouse is celebrating with green beer, Three Wisemen Irish Stout, corned beef and cabbage and their Guinness steak and cheese sandwich.
Be Here Now is also having a St. Patty's Day bash, starting at 10 p.m. The bands Eumatik and IndigoSun will play and Irish ales and drinks will be featured.
"I'm a big fan of St. Patrick's [Day,] we here at Be Here Now do not like snakes," owner Whitney Lewis said, referring the legend of St. Patrick. "We have two really good acts playing [tonight,] so there'll be cheap beer and good music."
Doc's Music Hall, off of Walnut Street, will have their Annual No Cover St. Patty's Day Throw Down at 11:30 p.m. where bands Bashville Boys, Peaceful Revolution and The New Old Cavalry will perform. Drinks, such as $5 Irish Car Bombs, will show off their holiday spirit during the St. Patrick's Day celebration.
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