Patch Picks: Top 5 Places to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Temecula

It's St. Patrick's Day and you know what that means.

Okay, so you might not know what a holiday named after the guy who drove the snakes out of Ireland has to do with Guinness and shepherd's pie, but there are plenty local establishments that would love for you to come trade your hard-earned greenbacks for their inviting green beer. Oh, and with NCAA tourney hoops kicking off in earnest, it's a double-down holiday for March Madness. If there was ever a holiday that screamed, "Cut loose and be merry," it's this one.

Here's Temecula Patch's top five recommendations on where you should spend your time today around Temecula:

: If it's a guy's night out, this Hooters-style pub might be what you're looking for. With scantily-clad waitresses rocking Catholic school girl-esque outfits, the Kilt says "green beer is just the beginning" for their all-out St. Patty's celebration. Featuring live music from 9 am-1 am on Thursdays, the Kilt also has several pool tables, dart boards and dozens of HD TVs to kick off your NCAA Tournament viewing party in style.

: This gastropub features the biggest block party in town this St. Patty's including live music, bag-pipers, face painting and three outside bars. If you're looking to go the extra mile today with your celebration, Killarney's has a 'Shamrock' VIP package waiting for you including a special entrance line, premium lounge, first dibs-access to their main bar, four drink and food tickets and a free shirt or other souvenir. This offer runs $100 at the door ($85 pre-sale) while regular admission costs $5 before 3 pm and $10 afterwards. The California Celts will headline their outdoor concert stage from 4 pm until midnight but BYOC: bring your own chair.

: If you dig the 'pool and beer' part of St. Patty's without the bar scene and big crowds, High Society might offer the sequestered shelter you seek. Located less than a mile from Old Town, this tournament-style pool hall features nearly 30 billiard tables and several dart boards with plenty of space in between to relax. In addition to an arcade game selection, there are six large TV screens and a projector to kick off March Madness. Please be sure to check out their site for special coupons.

: For the low-key high-holler, the Edge is where it's at in Temecula to grab a couple drinks, a gourmet meal and kick off the Big Dance with even less interruptions by watching games at this Old Town bar.

Temecula Wine & Beer Garden: This Old Town spot also features their own St. Patty's celebration with special food deals, live music and a special outdoor ambiance on their patio. The frugal consumer should enjoy this celebration which goes from noon to close with no cover charge. "Shoot 4 Tuezday" plays from 6:30-10:30 pm.