When a group of people decide to create a new event, everyone involved works extra hard to make it happen and then holds their breath to see if it takes. 

It seems that everything that the Mineral County Rec Club has initiated has been a homerun, with the St. Patrick’s Day celebration being one of their first events four years ago. And this year it continues with a little twist. 

President, Bessie Spangler explains some of the tweaks. 

“We planned to scale our fundraiser down due to other events and fundraisers planned the weekend before the holiday. Our group of volunteers are very busy so we just figured we could do a more intimate version this year,” she explained.  “We will be serving food in River Side Soups & Sandz this year. Since it's a Tuesday, we figured a to-go option would be great for folks who might not want to have a sit-down dinner.” 

But for those who do have time and care to relax and socialize, ample seating will be available in the back room of Soup & Sandz where the serving line will be set up between 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. March 17.

Outside activities for the younger leprechauns are going to curtail this year but it doesn’t mean they will be bored as this has been, and always will be, a family event. 

“We are working on some games and we will have face painting and a live band, The Louie Bond Band. They play at River Edge (in Alberton) quite a bit and all around Missoula. The Nugget Lounge has agreed to sell some beer and wine,” Spangler said.  “We plan to have a few raffle items and a possible silent auction for a portable generator we received. Plus, we will be selling 50/50 tickets and have some door prizes.”

Since their inception of this celebration, the marvelous food has been a big draw and remains on the menu. 

“Carl Nordberg will be smoking the corned beef again and Bailey Moree (owner of River Side Soups & Sandz) will be cooking the veggies and making soda bread this year.” 

A vegetarian dinner will be offered, and because this is sized down for 2026, the Rec Club will be able to prepare and staff with their own team. 

“We have been so lucky to have the Superior Community Outreach cook for us the four years, we figured they could have a year off and join in on the fun,” she smiled. One meal is $18 and a Family Meal is $40 for dine in or grab-and-go. Reservations are not required but will help at this point with food prep quantities. Visit mcrecclub.org. 

River Side Soups & Sandz is located at 103 River Street in Superior.