Photo courtesy of the City of Overland Park.

By Katie Dors and Mckenzie Hollinshed

Fat Tuesday is the holiday of feasting and making bad decisions–so are you by chance feeling guilty for all those Fat Tuesday shenanigans?

Well, now there are no more excuses. It’s time to lock in, and the perfect way to do so is to run. Working out is essential, and it’s easier to do when you are doing it for a good cause. The Westport St.Patrick’s Day Run on Saturday, March 15, has been a tradition since 1979. It is a 5k that costs $49, and the proceeds go to Lucky 13 Rescue, a non-profit organization that helps homeless and neglected dogs. The run starts at 10 a.m. on the south side of Westport Rd. and Pennsylvania Ave.

In addition to getting good exercise and helping dogs, you get to be serenaded by bagpipes throughout your run. Showing off your best St. Patrick’s Day outfit is a must since there is a costume contest at the end of the event. After the race, there is a post-race festival where snacks are served and you can visit KC’s local vendor booths.

But before you run, start with a little more fun. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Downtown Overland Park will be this Saturday, March 8. Starting at 10 a.m. at 79 St. & Floyd, making its way to the roundabout on Santa Fe Drive. Show your Irish pride by wearing your best green clothes, and stop by one of the local restaurants around the route and grab a meal after the parade. Come enjoy a display of Irish Culture with loads of music and dancing.