Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Saint Louis, MO

Whether or not you're Irish, St. Patrick's Day Weekend provides opportunities for celebration and fun. Your family can stay in to make corned beef with cabbage or shamrock shaped cookies with green sprinkles or hit these St. Louis St. Paddy's Day Parties.

2009 marks the 40th anniversary for the St. Louis Metropolitan St. Patrick's Day Parade which will be held this Saturday, March 14th and 12:00 pm. The parade will happen no matter the weather which is good because Saturday's forecast is calling for light rain but warmer temperatures (high in the 50's) than earlier this week so dress appropriately but don't forget the green! The parade begins downtown at 18th and Market Streets and will include floats, marching bands and kid friendly cartoon character balloons and clowns. In addition to the parade, there will be an Irish Village in Kiener Plaza with a kid's area including inflatables, entertainment and face painting.There will also be a "Party at the Start" at Aloe Plaza at 18th & Market after the parade where authentic Irish food will be sold and a post-parade concert will be performed. For more information on the parade route, see the official St. Patrick's Day Parade Site.

The Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in St. Louis will also be hosting their St. Patrick's Day Festival on Saturday. Corned beef and cabbage (chicken strips available for kids) will be served from 3-8pm and entertainment will be provided, including face-painting, clowns and inflatables.

If you are looking for a smaller parade in St. Charles County, head to Cottleville for the 1st Annual Firefighter's Community Outreach "St. Pat's Day Parade and Run for the Helmet" also held this Saturday, March 14th in Old Town Cottleville. A fun run will be held at 9 am and the parade is scheduled for 11 am along Highway N. Parade participants include The Rivercity Rascals, The Rage Soccer Team, area cheerleaders, bands and local businesses. Following the run and parade will be an Irish celebration at Sherlock's Steak and Seafood Restaurant. For more information, see the Cottleville Fire Fighter's Site.