Time to get out the green and start pinchin' because St. Patty's day is just around the corner.

Over 250 years old, the long-awaited parade will begin at 11a.m.(est) at 44th Street on  March 16, and will march up Fifth Avenue ending at 50th Street and 79th Street--a few blocks away from St. Patrick's Cathedral in Upper Manhattan. Normally, the parade is held on March 17, but is susceptible to change if that day happens to be on a Sunday--for religious courtesy.

If attending the parade, it is strongly advised to leave your car at home and take an alternative form of transportation, preferably train or subway. It is recommended to avoid the crowded sidewalks below 59th Street and watch the parade anywhere North of 66th Street and Fifth Avenue. The Metropolitan Museum of Art has a great viewing on the upper steps if you can secure a spot early enough.

If getting up-close and personal is a motive, then a perfect spot is at 86th Street. This where the parade disbands and finishes up.

A happy and early St. Patrick's Day to all.