St. Patty's Day in 5 Points
If you're from Columbia, or anywhere near it for that matter, then you're probably familiar with the annual St. Patty's Day Festival in 5 points. If you're not, however, I'll give you a little inside scoop. First, I guess I need to explain what 5 points is, though, right?!
Five Points is a spot in downtown Columbia where 5 different roads come together. It's pretty much the center of the college hangout and night scene. There are some pretty cool shops such as Luna, Loose Lucy's, Salty's Surf Shop, Papa Jazz Record Shoppe, a few Art Galleries, and much more. Also, some of my favorite restaurants are located in 5 points: Groucho's Deli, Yesterday's, Village Idiot Pizza and Pub, and a few others. (If you're planning on coming to USC next year, you MUST try Groucho's Apollo Dipper....you'll wish they had a special meal plan for that one sandwich....it's THAT good!) Five Points is also known for it's nightlife with bars such as Dr. Rocco's, The Saloon, Pavlov's, and Pour House (just to name a few). However, as many of you know from news of 2 USC quarterbacks....these places can get you into a heap of trouble. So, I'd suggest you use caution!
Now, to the real story (since last Saturday was March 17th)....the St. Patty's Day Festival. Most towns have some sort of celebration for this day, but Columbia's is truly unique. I've heard that we're ranked #3 in St. Patrick's Day festivities in the whole country. The day starts off bright and early for a 5K run and 1 mile walk where participants strive towards the 'Pot of Gold' at the finish line. Then, there's a parade and children's carnival, but in the afternoon the real fun begins. With 5 stages set up, local and regional artists perform for big, loud, 'green' crowds. I was there this year and let me tell you...people must hate getting pinched. I saw not one person who forgot to wear green. People were decked out with green pants, dresses, and even green hair. And of course, for people 21 and over, there was loads of green beer.
And though St. Pat's Day and all the green was tons of fun, today I'm feeling a bit blue because of course my Biology professor would schedule an exam the first day back from Spring Break....so it looks like it's going to be another late night at the library for me!