St. Patrick's Day in Clark County, WA - Wear your Green proudly!

There are an estimated 55,600 residents in Clark County, WA who have ancestors from Ireland ( cheers to my Grandpa Laney).  That’s a bit higher than the nearly 54,300 who claim English ancestors, according to a recent United Census Bureau survey.

Naturally, on St. Patrick’s Day, many claim a bit of Irish blood. And, who cares?  Irish people are a friendly and welcoming lot and would be more than happy to make you a part of the family.  So, go ahead wear your green proudly today.

Celebrate your Green proudly at these St. Patrick’s Day 2013 events in Clark County.

Irish flag ceremony — 10 a.m., Clark County Courthouse, 1200 Franklin St. Flag raising honors long-standing tradition of Denny Lane, Vancouver resident from Ireland who died in 1965.

Irishtown celebration — Starting noon, Irishtown Public House, 11600 S.E. Mill Plain Blvd. Daylong celebration featuring Irish dancers and bands. New Shilling band begins at 10 p.m. $5 before 3 p.m., $10 after. No minors after 5 p.m.

All-Ireland Cultural Society 72nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival — Noon to 8 p.m., Ambridge Event Center, 376 N.E. Clackamas St., Portland. Featuring Irish dancers, bagpipe music, traditional food and drink. $10 general admission.

Fort Vancouver Pipe Band appearances — 2 and 8 p.m., Shanahan’s Pub & Grill, 209 W. McLoughlin Blvd. 5:30 p.m., Bill’s Chicken and Steak House, 2200 Fort Vancouver Way. 7 p.m., Dublin Down, 813 Main St.

Music/dance at Brickhouse — 5 p.m. Irish dancing; 7 p.m. live music begins; 1:30 and 8:30 p.m. Vancouver Fire Department Pipes and Drums band. Brickhouse Bar & Grill, 109 W. 15th St. Free. Kids allowed until 8 p.m.

Regardless of where your ancestors came from,  you’re encouraged to wear your green proudly today and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day  2013 in Clark County, WA