As the Riverbend region prepares for a season brimming with cultural and social activities, residents and visitors alike are invited to immerse themselves in a rich array of happenings. From festive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and culinary adventures to engaging community gatherings and live music performances, there is no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the area's vibrant spirit. Whether you're indulging in delicious fish fries, joining lively pub crawls, or exploring historical lectures, these events promise something for everyone to savor.
Highlights of the Season's Festivities
In the heart of the Riverbend area, an exciting lineup of events is set to captivate audiences throughout March 2025. On Fridays during Lent, Fish Haven at Alton VFW Post 1308 offers a delectable fish fry from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., where guests can relish a hearty meal accompanied by live tunes. Meanwhile, Godfrey Knights of Columbus invites seafood enthusiasts to their McNicholas Club on Stamper Lane every Friday from March 7 through April 11, serving up a buffet-style feast that includes shrimp, whitefish, and more.
Music lovers will find joy in various performances across venues such as Alton VFW Post 1308, where The City Heat plays on March 14, and Edwardsville Moose Lodge, featuring Lanny & Julie. Additionally, EXO presents a special dining experience celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with corned beef and cabbage crafted meticulously by seasoned chefs. For those interested in history and preservation, the Genealogy & Local History Library collaborates with AALA for an enlightening lecture series exploring architectural marvels and Buckminster Fuller's legacy.
Social engagement takes center stage with interactive events like the Mix & Mingle Voters Rally hosted by Mayor Goins at Great Rivers Hotel in Alton. Families can bond over games at Parent’s Night Out organized by Greater St. James Missionary Baptist Church or participate in Homeschool Open Gymnastics at Wood River Rec Center. Furthermore, charitable endeavors shine through occasions like Uncorked for a Cause benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Alton and CHWA: Live Pro Wrestling supporting local talent.
As we approach mid-March, festivities escalate with St. Ambrose Parish hosting Bible studies, Petaled Pail & Co. Design House presenting flower arranging workshops, and Goshen Farmers Market offering fresh produce. Alton celebrates its Irish heritage with gusto via pub crawls, karaoke nights, and concerts led by renowned artists including Thomas M. Taylor IV at Alton Little Theater. Notably, Cottage Hills Wrestling Alliance brings electrifying wrestling matches to American Legion Post 199 and Edwardsville American Legion.
The weekend culminates in jubilant displays of creativity and camaraderie, whether it be crafting butterfly paintings under black lights at Party on Broadway or enjoying classic rock anthems performed by Head East at Wildey Theatre. These moments underscore the diverse tapestry of experiences available within this dynamic community.
From a reporter's perspective, the sheer variety and inclusivity of these events reflect the deep-rooted connections between tradition and innovation in the Riverbend area. Each gathering not only fosters personal enjoyment but also strengthens communal bonds, creating lasting memories shared among participants. It serves as a testament to how collective enthusiasm transforms individual interests into widespread celebration, reinforcing the essence of what makes this region truly special.