Jackson Free Press

As you gear up for one of the most anticipated weekends in Jackson, don't forget to pick up this week's JFP issue to guide you through the Mal's St. Patty's Parade and events. Tonight, grab a feather boa and your dancing shoes and head to the King Edward Hotel at 5 p.m. for the Marching Malfunctions Second Line Stomp and Street Dance. The New Orleans-style second line will leave hotel at 7 p.m. and end at Hal & Mal's for an outdoor concert with performances by The Bailey Brothers, The Legendary House Rockers, Super Chikan blues band and the Jackson Allstar Brass Band. Then head to Fire to see The Molly Ringwalds perform, or the Basement at Fire/Fuego to see the Shamrock-a-Shimmy-Burlesque Show. For the weekend's hottest picks, visit the JFP's Best Bets page.

If you don't stay up too late tonight, wake up early Saturday morning for the St. Paddy's Day 5K Run, 5K Walk and Mile Kids Run at 8 a.m. The race begins at the Bancorp South Building at Capitol and State streets, and proceeds benefit the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital. Register for the race online. After you get some exercise, watch the St. Paddy's Pet Parade, 10 a.m. at the Jackson Convention Complex. The $5 fee to enter pets benefits the Mississippi Animal Rescue League, and the most creative and original pets will receive a trophy.

Make sure you stake out your parade viewing post early. The Mal's St. Patty's Parade begins at 1 p.m., and the theme is "Hey, Hey, the Blues is Alright." The options for post-parade celebrations are endless. Check out the JFP's roundup of after parties and events or find more at JFP Events Calendar. Make sure you squeeze in a nap Saturday so you can make it to Fenians, Ole Tavern, Dreamz JXN or Martin's for some awesome live music. Check out the JFP Music Listings for a complete guide to Saturday's nightlife.

On Sunday, you'll likely need to schedule recovery time. Head to Char to see Raphael Semmes perform during the restaurant's jazz brunch. Or pick another local restaurant from the JFP Restaurant Listings and the Menu Guide.

Is something missing? To make sure your event is listed on the JFP calendars, send the information to [e-mail missing] or [e-mail missing], or add your event yourself. It's easy!