Give Irish-Americans credit: No ethnic tradition in this country has done such a remarkable job of convincing everyone else that, for at least one day a year, their heritage belongs to all of us. The Hibernian Society of Utah continues this fine tradition with this year’s series of St. Patrick’s Day events. The fun begins with Saturday’s annual parade, in which bands, politicians and other well-wishers (including City Weekly) put on their green and stroll and/or ride through the Gateway Center. This year’s parade theme, “From Kerry to Promontory,” honors local pioneer Gen. Patrick Edward Connor, whose entrepreneurial efforts included founding the Utah’ territory’s first daily newspaper and its first silver-smelting works. After the parade, the party gets even livelier at the “Siamsa,” a celebration of food, music and dancing at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. See, they even managed to convince the Greeks that they’re Irish.

You can keep your Irish up throughout the subsequent days, as well. On March 16 at 7 p.m., the Fort Douglas Museum presents “The Wild Geese and the Finians of Fort Douglas,” which tells the story of Irish exiles serving in the foreign armies as well as a lecture about the life of Gen. Connor. And, on March 27 at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral Church of St. Mark’s, enjoy a “Night With the Irish Poets,” a free (with Utah Food Bank contribution) reading of traditional and contemporary verse. (Scott Renshaw)

St. Patrick’s Day Parade @ Gateway Center, 400 West, Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m. Siamsa Celebration @ Holy Trinity Church, 279 S. 300 West, after the parade.

Visit IrishInUtah.com for other events.