It almost didn't happen but the 2012 St. Patrick's Day Parade and Party is almost here. The event will take place on Saturday, March 17 beginning at 8:30 a.m. and running all day until 7:00 p.m. The parade and party will go on no matter the weather and is a great opportunity for residents to lay back, party and have fun.

The St. Patrick's Day event is massive and will span several miles on Lower Greenville Avenue. The day begins with a 5K run that begins at 8:30 a.m. and lasts until 11:00 a.m., which is when the big parade starts. The parade begins at Wellons and will go south on Greenville until SMU Boulevard. Participants are encouraged to camp out on Greenville to watch and cheer for the parade.

The parade will last until approximately 2:30 p.m. and afterwards, many people will usually head to the bars on Lower Greenville to continue the party. There will also be a special event party located on Greenville between Vanderbilt and Vickery from 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Access to the party is strictly 21 years and up, as there will street sales of alcohol available.

The Dallas Police Department will have a large presence at the event and will not hesitate to hang out DUI tickets. The police will also be watching for minors in consumption, as well as parking and noise violations. However, more than anything, the police are there to make sure everyone has an enjoyable and safe time at the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Party.