Chicago - March 10, 2005

The Weekend Guide

What to Do This Weekend

The annual St. Paddy’s Day celebration begins. And, as luck would have it, we’ve all got a little bit of -ish in us this weekend.

DO
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
What: The tradition kicks off with the dyeing of the river at 10:45 a.m.
Why: No passport needed to drink yourself silly. Today, everyone in Chicago is Irish.
When: Sat. at noon.
Where: Parade starts at Balbo and Columbus Drives.

TASTE
Flushed Cheeks
What: Sample world-class vino courtesy of Artisan Cellars in the unlikely setting of high-end bath and kitchen showrooms.
Why: Pimped-out latrines for the lavish. A free buzz for the cheapish.
When: Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: The Merchandise Mart, first flr., 200 World Trade Center, b/t Wells and Orleans Sts. (800-677-MART).

HEAR
I Heart Interpol
What: Check out the indie music sweethearts’ magical melodies and hipster style.
Why: Their sound is decidedly post-punk British.
When: Fri. at 8 p.m.
Where: Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W. Lawrence Ave., at Winthrop Ave. (773-561-9500).

BUY
Puma Trunk Show
What: A spring collection perfect for looking fashionable without lifting a finger.
Why: Duh. Are you or are you not stylish?
When: Sat. noon-4 p.m.
Where: Red Head Boutique, 3450 N. Southport Ave., b/t Cornelia and Roscoe Aves. (773-325-9898).

SEE
L’Air Lair at the PAC/edge Festival
What: Dance-theater in the vending machine room of the Athenaeum Theater. Capacity crowd: 5.
Why: Perfect for the arts-loving dilettantish sort.
When: Shows start on the hour. Sat. 7 p.m.-10 p.m. and Sun. 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Where: 2936 N. Southport Ave., at Lincoln and Wellington Aves. (773-722-5463 or pachicago.org).