Last year was my first official time to experience the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Dallas. I’d been on Greenville during the SPD shenanigans, but had never been in the thick of the debauchery. Needless to say, I had a blast! But there are a few things I’d do differently this year. So I’ve compiled this list of survival tips for the St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Travel Light
I love SPD and green is my favorite color. This makes a deadly combo. Last year, I bought
all the things. Clover clappers, green light-up shamrock sticks, gold coins, novelty glasses, a tutu, temp tats, stickers….the list goes on.
I don’t regret buying all that stuff, because it was fun to have in the moment. But, I do remember feeling quit burdened carrying all of it in my bag, and as a result I think some of it got lost. So try to only bring what you can comfortably hold/the minimum – water/beverages, green beads, etc.
Pack Sunscreen
On the packing note, be sure you bring sunscreen. It’s easy to forget, especially if it’s overcast. But you’re going to be outside for hours (even if you try to get into that crowded bar). Your skin will thank you, and your friends will see you as a sunscreen superhero. Also, sidebar: if you put shamrock stickers on your face, you will get tan lines.
Take the Dart
I’m so thankful for services like Uber and Lyft, but on days like these, the Dart is truly your best option. It will be packed, yes. You’ll probably have to wait for a couple of trains, yes. But trust me, this is so much cheaper than a surging Uber ride that day (and probably faster, too). There will lots of parade goers on the Dart, so you can make friends! I made a Dart friend last year who didn’t even know about the parade, but decided to tag along. He was coming from the airport with a suitcase–what a party trooper!.
Hydrate/Snack
Don’t forget to bring that H20, or to grab a snack or even lunch. There’s plenty of options on Greenville avenue. You’ll be glad you grabbed something come morning, aka: Spring forward Sunday.
Go to the Show
I went to Third Eye Blind last year and it was so fun! Sure, it’s crowded and it gets warm in the pit, but it’s worth it. Plus there’s bathrooms–granted they’re porta-pottys, but still, you’ll be thankful for them.
The show’s only $15/person for general admission. This year looks to be just as promising with Jimmy Eat World (<3), Rooney (<3), and Different Strokes (<3). Will I see you there?
Bring a Charger
Don’t make a rookie mistake here. You’re going to be out most of the day–likely taking pictures, sending snaps, and generally trying to make your friends jealous on social media. So opt for bringing an external charger, like a Mophie, so you’ll have extra juice.
Have a Buddy System
Don’t depend on the luck of the Irish! You’ll want to stick close to your buddies because it’s easy to get lost in the sea of green. And guess what? Cell service is almost non-existent, so forget calling your friends to track them down. Keep an eagle eye on at least one of your parade pals.
Leave Early
I recommend leaving early (while the sun’s still out). Go home, shower, drink water, and rest. Don’t be afraid to pull an Irish goodbye if none of your other friends want to leave early.
What are your tips for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dallas? Share them in the comments.
Julie in Dallas 
Spot a potty as soon as you arrive. With all the drinking, you’ll need it. You may have to buy something at one of the stores that line Greenville (save your receipt), but just do it!
Great advice, Daisy! I know I ducked into a 7-11 to use the restroom at one point. It took forever to buy something b/c of the line, but was so worth it.