TBBA - Takapuna Beach Business Association

Shillelaghs, shamrocks and shenanigans, it's a day to eat, drink and be Irish!

With the introduction of an Irish pub to the Takapuna entertainment strip, three Hurstmere Road bars have combined their efforts and are going all out to ensure the 17th March being St Patrick's Day will be a day to celebrate and remember.

With a special permit acquired to occupy the footpath for the entire day, a Green Zone will be created outside the Blankenberge Belgian Beer Cafe, Florrie McGreal's Irish Pub and the Copper Room.

Festivities will begin at 7.30am with the serving of a traditional Irish breakfast with proceeds donated to the Guide Dog Services Foundation for the Blind.

Typical Irish fare of corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew and beef and stout pie will also be available throughout the day.

Live entertainment will commence at 3.00pm on a specially erected stage and will continue throughout the afternoon and evening with contemporary and traditional Irish bands performing along with Irish dancers.

Colm McNeill-O'Keefe, the manager of Florrie McGreal's Irish Pub has previously been involved in St Patrick's Day celebrations in both the Claddagh and Muddy Farmer Irish pubs in Auckland and said that the day is simply huge. "It is fantastic having those with Irish heritage and even those that don't, come out and celebrate what is probably the second biggest party in the world"

Bookings for the charity breakfast are available by either telephoning 486 6330 or emailing colm@burnbrae.co.nz