‘Top of the Afternoon’ at Palatine Train Station

It took the luck of the Irish to find a place to stand at the Palatine Metra station, as hundreds of residents and others enjoyed shopping and chatting at the Irish Market. 

The market and parade were part of the first ever ‘Paint the Town Green' festival.  The blustery weather didn't appear to deter many from coming out to enjoy the festivities.

“I think it’s so fun with all of the people that came here today, and the Irish dancers were great,” said Molly Murphy, a student at Fremd High School.

“It’s been fabulous; from the parade to the market with all of the Irish wares and food, it just shows how Palatine residents get involved and join as a community,” said Linda DeLeshe, who grew up in Palatine and moved back to the village in 2005.

There were many interesting and unique items available to satisfy out of the ordinary tastes. One such option were Guinness cupcakes.

“I use Guinness right in the batter, and I’m not a beer drinker at all but I love them,” said Kristine Kocanda, owner of Cupakes and More by Kristine, Inc, which was one of the many featured Palatine businesses.

Kerri Callahan of Cookie Cards, Inc. also displayed yummy creations with a distinctly Irish green theme.

Morkes Chocolates offered scrumptious St. Patty’s Day treats including St. Patrick’s Day chocolate snakes, (green) pistachio muffins, shamrock lollipops and Irish chocolate pipes.

Palatine Bank and Trust gave chances to make some ‘green’ with their ‘Money Machine.’ Enthusiastic attendees got to spend 30 seconds in a glass booth where artificial wind whipped around real money and decoy money coupons.

“It was fast, furious and massive chaos with decoys but I was able to grab three dollars,” said Sean Stillmaker, one of the first individuals who took a chance in the Money Machine.

“This is a great idea to get the community involved in a festive celebration like St. Patrick’s Day; it’s also great that local businesses are highlighted,” said Sheila Schwartz of Palatine Bank and Trust.

McNulty Irish Dancers performed in the parade and afterwards at the Irish Market outside the train station for all to enjoy.

When asked if it was difficult to dance in the cold, one young dancer said, “I love dancing, and since I keep moving, I forget its cold.”

“It’s great for the girls to perform so close to home, our dancers are mostly from Palatine and the surrounding areas and they really looked forward to performing today,” said Barbara McNulty, McNulty Irish Dancers owner.

Green carnations and flower arrangements were available thanks to Kabloom of Palatine, as owner Terri Salerno and her daughter Katie helped in spreading the Irish cheer.

Bead World displayed its Celtic jewelry selections in keeping with the all Irish theme.  

“It’s a fun event and great to have the opportunity to show off our Celtic jewelry selection, in addition to other items we carry at our store that come from all over the world,” said Martha Pafralides, Bead World owner.

“I like all the chocolate and also the chance to win a trip to Ireland,” said Christine Stahl, Arlington Heights resident, who heard about the event from a friend and loves all things Irish.

McLin Tours and Travel offered those in attendance the opportunity to win a trip to Ireland.

“All the vendors have first class products and it is so nice to see so much of the community here,” said Marion Crimmins, 35-year Palatine resident.

“I’ve had a lot of fun; all of the people coming out made it really cool; it makes me look forward to more events that happen downtown,” said Hannah Hess, a student at Fremd High School.

The event was a kick off for St. Patrick’s Day, which is officially on March 17.  'Beannachtam na Feile Padraig,' which is Gaelic for Happy St. Patrick's Day!