Preparation is underway at the Townsquare Media of the Hudson Valley offices in Poughkeepsie for Paddy on the River, the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the Hudson Valley. The event returns to Victor C. Waryas Park in Poughkeepsie on Saturday, March 25 from noon until 5PM. This is the event's third year and its second at Waryas Park -- and the festivities are sure to be bigger and better than ever.

Anthony Verano, live events manager for Townsquare Media, is hard at work making last minute preparations for the event. During the final days leading up to Paddy on the River, Verano ensures vendors have the correct permits, coordinates with tent rental companies and runs through possible configurations for event setup. This is all part of what Verano calls “the final push,” but once all the work is done, he finally gets to see the hard work pay off.

“Once I see people having a good time, that’s my favorite part,” he said.

Another Townsquare Media employee involved with Paddy on the River is Jackie Corley, the digital managing editor. Corley works with other members of the Townsquare team to promote the event on the stations’ websites and social media platforms. This year, she is using footage from last year’s event to create a video featuring a group of animated leprechauns discussing Paddy on the River to complement a radio ad.

On event day, Corley typically walks around to document the event.

“My role is to grab footage for things that we can use in the future,” she said.

She also assists the Townsquare DJs and encourages them to create interesting, engaging content relating to the event for the radio station websites.

However, Corley still finds time to enjoy the event. Though typical St. Patrick’s Day events can be associated with a little bit of chaos, she said Paddy on the River has a family atmosphere.

“It’s just a great day with cool food trucks and good beer,” Corley said.

This year, the event will feature performances from Eddie McCabe and the United Irishmen, the Mighty Ploughboys and Ireland the Band; amazing food vendors like Mahoney’s Irish Pub & Steakhouse, Ei’s Fries and Clocktower Grill; and tons of beer, so there really is something for everyone.

If you’re interested in attending this year’s Paddy on the River, general admission tickets are $12 if purchased online ahead of time, and are $20 at the event. Children ages 10 and under get in free, but access to the beer garden is limited to people 21 and older. VIP tickets are $40 and include three beer tickets, a VIP only beer selection, a separate seating area, and a food voucher provided by Mahoney’s Irish Pub. However, VIP tickets can only be purchased online ahead of time and are quickly running out, so get yours today.

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