“Craic” is a Gaelic term for fun, entertainment, laughter and enjoyable conversation. You will experience “craic” and more when you visit these traditional Irish restaurants and pubs for St. Patrick’s Day – and you don’t need to make the drive downtown to experience them.
Ballydoyle’s Irish Pub & Restaurant: Bloomingdale, Downers Grove, Aurora
The only pub to serve McCaffery’s Irish Cream Ale, made exclusively by Argus Brewery in Chicago, Ballydoyle’s is a prime pub to spend your St. Patrick’s Day this year. All three locations will celebrate similarly. Doors open and beer starts flowing with an Irish breakfast buffet at 8 am. The McNulty Irish Dancers will perform all day and night, and in between their traditional dances, a variety of stellar bands will keep the atmosphere exciting. A bagpiper will also serenade guests. Later on, look for the Knights of Ballydoyle, Ballydoyle’s own knights procession. Investors and regulars will dress up in traditional kilt uniforms and snake through the pub to the stage for an official traditional Irish toast. Don’t miss it! Source: Phil Cullen, Owner, Ballydoyle’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
McGonigal’s Pub: Barrington
McGonigal’s provides an authentic Irish pub experience that you won’t soon forget. Located in beautiful downtown Barrington in a building originally built in 1913, the historical, warm, inviting atmosphere will keep you there for hours. The food is fresh and delicious – and the instant camaraderie you feel from the owners and staff is incomparable. McGonigal’s will celebrate St. Paddy’s day all weekend with the 2nd Annual Barrington Celtic Fest. The two-day festival will run all day on Friday from 11 am to 2 am. On St. Patrick’s Day, doors will open early at 9 am and the party won’t stop until 2 am. A large heated tent will hover outside so you can enjoy the celebration outdoors without worries of the weather. Stop by for some green beer, Irish dancers, bagpipers, live music, and mingle with other eateries and vendors. Visit McGonigal’s this holiday to eat, drink and celebrate in style! Source: Bryan McGonigal, Owner, McGonigal’s Pub
Peggy Kinnane’s Irish Restaurant & Pub: Arlington Heights
In the heart of booming downtown Arlington Heights, Peggy Kinnane’s is one exciting place to kick off your St. Patrick’s Day celebration this year. You will feel like you are back in Ireland, as the establishment specially shipped the fireplaces, Irish stone, bars, woodwork and decorations directly from Ireland. Bagpipers will play authentic Irish music while you enjoy drinks and Irish-inspired dishes from Peggy’s vast menu. Bring the kids, too; there will be a face painter and balloonist to make the kids feel a part of the holiday. Be on the lookout for traditional Irish dancers as well. Peggy’s is the place for all ages to celebrate this year! Source: Derek Hanley, Owner, Peggy Kinnane’s Irish Restaurant & Pub
Sources: Interviews with Bryan McGonigal, Owner, McGonigal’s Pub; Derek Hanley, Owner, Peggy Kinnane’s Irish Restaurant & Pub; Phil Cullen, Owner, Ballydoyle’s Irish Pub & Restaurant