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There’s a little bit of Ireland every day in Seal Beach. Taverns and pubs named O’Malley’s on Main (owned by an Irish merchant) or Irisher, and an award-winning hair colorist extraordinaire named Lisa Brown from Dublin, are some of the best talents and ex”Pats” you’ll find this side of the Emerald Isle. Just knowing these Irish people with their charming accents and enthusiasm for life makes you want to celebrate.

And on one special day in Seal Beach, you can! Main Street from the Seal Beach Pier at Ocean Ave. to Central Ave. is shut down each year on St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) so everyone can come out and play. In a festive atmosphere, community-minded Seal Beach Lions Club members man a booth on Main Street, providing rides home for those who have been drinking a wee bit too much. If you come downtown early, you can get inside Malley’s, Walt’s and all the great restaurants and pubs within 15-30 minutes. As the night wears on when the party atmosphere amps up,  adults line up and can wait longer to celebrate a special holiday with Irish ales, whiskeys and comfort foods such as corned beef & cabbage or an Irish stew you’ll usually find on the local tavern menus. Don’t feel too sorry for those who wait–there’s plenty of merriment outside, too!

Street artists such as a lad in kilt performing Irish tunes on his fiddle (SEE VIDEO) usually appear on Main Street,  entertaining the crowds waiting to get into the restaurants and bars. If you’re looking for Lucky Charms,  Seal Beach offers a slice of life in a friendly & familiar atmosphere that makes you want to stick around. If you do, everyone will get to know your name– Cheers!