The Top Five

1. St. Patrick's Day Parade

So it's technically not on St. Patrick's Day, but that's all the more reason to go. You can have your cake and eat it too, i.e., celebrate on campus on the 17th and enjoy the traditional Irish revelry in Southie on the 18th. The parade starts at 1 p.m. from the Broadway T stop and ends in Andrew Square. Keep in mind that there will be bagpipes and screaming children, so make sure that you are in the condition to enjoy it.

2. 'The Wind that Shakes the Barley'

Admittedly the title of this movie could use some work, but in keeping with all that is Irish (at least for this week) it has the potential to be amazing. Starring Cillian Murphy of 28 Days Later and Batman Begins fame, the film follows two brothers as they lead a rebellion for Irish independence from Great Britain. It opens on Friday as a limited release so be sure to look up the locations beforehand (but honestly, it makes it that much cooler).

3. Jay Leonard

Jay Leonard, WCAS '07, has a flurry of shows in the works, so get ready. On March 15, he'll be at Revolution Rock Bar, and then at the recently renovated Attic on March 23. His accomplished blend of folk rock suits his new residency at Revolution, and he will be performing there several times a month. His shows guarantee a fun and lively atmosphere, so grab some friends and hit it up.

4. Hockey East Championship tournament

Check out the men's ice hockey team as it faces off against our rival BU at TD Banknorth Garden in the semi-final game of the Hockey East Championship this Friday at 8 p.m. The Terriers came out on top last year, so this match-up will be especially heated. You can purchase tickets on Ticketmaster - they might charge you an arm and a leg, but at least it's not a lottery.

5. The Pub Series Concert

Remember the good old days when The Rat used to be a conveniently located bar on campus? Neither do I, but we've all heard about it and tonight we have the opportunity to experience it. Get into the St. Patty's Day spirit a little early and head to the basement in Lyons for some free food and music - or at least to find out what those ambiguously labeled "free prizes" really are. Students 21 or older can belly up to the bar and everyone else can look on longingly.