McHenry ShamRocks Fest A Go; Parade Canceled

MCHENRY, IL — While this year's event will look a bit different, the St. Patrick's Day show will go on this weekend in McHenry.

In recent weeks, organizers have said plans could change if COVID-19 protocols shift, but the event is currently set for Saturday and Sunday. And a schedule has been posted in recent days on the Visit McHenry website with more details expected in the coming days.

This year's parade has been canceled due to COVID-19, and those attending ShamRocks the Fox 2021 will be required to wear masks and practice safe social distancing. Open carry of alcohol will be allowed from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, according to a Sunday Facebook post from the city of McHenry.

Here is a look at the current schedule of events:

Saturday, March 13

• 8 a.m. : Shamrock Shuffle 5K organized and run by the McHenry Kiwanis Club. Those interested can register here.
• 11 a.m.: Dyeing of the Fox River and portion of Boone Creek by Blarney Island; the Pearl Street bridge will be closed to traffic for viewing of the Fox River. Attendees can also check out the green river from sidewalks along Miller Point and along the McHenry River Walk.
• 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Food and drink specials at local McHenry-area businesses.

Sunday, March 14

• 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Food and drink specials at local McHenry area businesses.

Last year, the ShamRocks the Fox festival was canceled just days before it was planned to take place as the COVID-19 outbreak first took hold in the Chicago area.

This year, many cities that typically host St. Patrick's Day events have called the fests off over continued concerns over the spread of the virus. Among the events to be canceled a second year in a row is the popular South Side Irish Parade and Chicago's St. Patrick's Day parade.

• South Side Irish Parade Canceled For Second Year
• Coronavirus Fears 2020: Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade Postponed

St. Charles and East Dundee have also canceled their parades but will be hosting other events around town (check out St. Charles events online, and East Dundee's events can be found here).

Meanwhile, many restaurants and bars are still planning and advertising for St. Patrick's Day specials. Capacity limits are in place under Phase IV of Illinois' reopening plan, but indoor dining and drinking are currently allowed.