The fourth annual St. Patrick’s Day block party in downtown LaGrange was a success over the weekend, drawing hundreds of area residents and out of town guests to the afternoon and evening filled with live music, food, drink and good times. 

While the weather was cooler than it had been in years’ past, the community still showed up in droves to enjoy the afternoon and the opportunity to have a fun-filled afternoon. 

Wild Leap Brew Co. hosted The Storydwellers during the evening, while the Showmobile Stage was set on Main Street, which featured live music such as the band Mr. Terrific as well as the Drake Irish Dancers. 

Local residents enjoyed the chance to be in the downtown area and engage with businesses as well as old friends. 

“This is our third year to come together for this event,” said local resident Ann Kelton. “We like the music, the Irish dancers and walking around and visiting with everybody. 

“We just like the chance to walk around and visit,” echoed Annette Hodges. 

Peggie Scott has owned and operated Plum Southern on Main Street for 11 years, and said block party events such as the one that took place Saturday are great for the community and great for businesses. 

“It is a great event,” Scott said. “It’s a really great event, very well-attended. We’re doing a wine tasting here, it is great to get people in the stores.” 

Jovanni Ugalde, owner of the bar 86’d, also said the St. Patrick’s Day block party is a great opportunity for community members to engage with downtown businesses and provides a good opportunity to have fun. 

Ugalde opened 86’d approximately 18 months ago, and said his first experience with the St. Patrick’s Day event was prior to his business opening up. 

“I think this is huge,” Ugalde said. “Before I opened the bar, I actually came out to the event as a spectator. I feel like this is huge for the community and especially for little local businesses. It’s an awesome day.”