KENOSHA, Wis. — Kenosha will turn green on Saturday, March 14, as the city hosts its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration, featuring a 2K Guinness Fun Run and the Eric Olson Memorial St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
City officials announced this week that several downtown streets will be temporarily closed to accommodate the festivities.
The 2K Guinness Fun Run begins at 9:30 a.m. near Captain Mike’s, 5118 Sixth Ave., and will head south through the heart of downtown along Sixth Avenue before looping back north to its starting point.
The parade steps off at 10:45 a.m. at 50th Street and Seventh Avenue, proceeding south on Sixth Avenue and concluding at Library Park.
Organizers say more than 80 entries are expected, including bands, community groups, elected officials, businesses and entertainers. The Kenosha Area Pipes and Drums Association will help lead the lineup.
Street Closures and Parking
Streets will be closed between 50th Street and Seventh Avenue and south along Sixth Avenue to Library Park. Roads are expected to reopen by 1:30 p.m., except for block party areas near Swede’s, 510 56th St., and Captain Mike’s, which will remain closed until midnight March 14.
Most of Simmons Island will also close beginning at 8 a.m. for parade staging, though access will remain open for Great Lakes Yacht Sales, the Kenosha Yacht Club, the Kenosha History Center and the Kenosha Water Utility.
Free parking will be available in the parking ramp at Eighth Avenue and 56th Street. On-street parking throughout downtown will also be free unless otherwise posted.
The event is presented by the City of Kenosha, Visit Kenosha and the Lakeshore Business Improvement District.
Residents planning to attend are encouraged to arrive early and expect increased foot traffic throughout the downtown area.
