Lake of the Ozarks is home of some of the best celebrations and parades that one can witness anywhere in the world. Whether it is to celebrate the arrival of spring or commemorating the birth of a patron saint, every event is celebrated with great gusto and pompousness. If you truly want to celebrate the spirit of the Irish in the heart of the United States, you should take a trip to the Ozarks on the 17th of March 2012 to witness Irish glory at its best.
St Patrick’s day celebrations in the Ozarks attracts thousands of tourists each year who arrive not just from various parts of the country, but also the world, to take part in the parades and other festivities and to paint the town green, literally! This is the only place in the United States where St Patrick’s Day parades are held not just on land, but also water. Yes, you read that right! Thousands of boating enthusiasts converge at the Ozarks to participate in this one-of-its-kind water parade, which also heralds the start of the boating season here. The boats are all decorated in green before being taken into the waters of this man-made lake. Those who love to be a part of the parade, minus the boats, can book their seats on the Tropic Island Cruise Boat which forms a part of St Patrick’s Day water parade. Visitors can club their cruise tickets with a sumptuous breakfast buffet before the parade commences. This parade will come to an end with the award distribution ceremony once all the parade boats dock.
If water parade is not something that interests you, then assemble at the Bagnell Dam Strip to witness one of the largest St Patrick’s Day parade in this region. Businesses and individuals who would like to showcase their presence and establish their identity can sponsor floats. The 28th Annual St Patrick’s Day parade will start off at 1pm. Visitors will not be left disappointed, thanks to the numerous floats that are loaded with goodies such as trinkets, candies and many more for children as well as adults. There are a number of competitions held during the parade for adults and little ones. The winners will get to take home some of the best souvenirs that will last a lifetime.
Not the ones to be left behind are the hotels and restaurants in this region which are offering great discounts on food and beverages all through the event. If you are planning to visit the Ozarks to witness the St Patrick’s Day parade on the water as well as along Bagnell Dam Strip, ensure you book your stay well in advance to avoid being stranded during the weekend. The endless flow of drinks, combined with mouthwatering cuisine including cabbage feasts and corned beef, is bound to leave you asking for more.
This is your chance to go green and participate in one of the most awaited parades at Lake of the Ozarks. Let your hair down and bring out the child in you! If you want to experience a fun-filled weekend in the lap of nature, surrounded by like-minded people, Lake of the Ozarks awaits you.
Participants willing to participate in the 21st Annual St Patrick’s Day parade should be present at the Ozark Bar B-Que, located at 608 Wings Circle, Sunrise Beach, MO 65079, at 9am which is when the breakfast buffet starts. The water parade and the Tropical Island Cruise Boat will start from 10.5mm at 10.30am and travel up to Gravois Arm. The trip on the cruise along with the buffet costs $30 per person. The 28th Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade at Bagnell Strip Parade will start at 1pm. Civic entries cost $20 and business entries $25.
For more information, you can either visit www.lakewestchamber.com or call them on 573-374-5500.