Mark Chapman of the St. Andrews Legion Pipes and Drums of Richmond practices his bagpipes before the start of Roanoke's St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2007. The annual parade starts today at 10 a.m. in downtown Roanoke.

Members of the Virginia Highlands Pipes and Drums march down Jefferson Street during the 2009 McDonald's St. Patrick's Day Parade in Roanoke.

There are plenty of opportunities to show your Irish spirit, authentic or otherwise, at events beginning this morning and extending to this evening. Downtown Roanoke's St. Patrick's Day Celebration runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

ROANOKE ST. PATRICK'S DAY CELEBRATION KEY EVENTS

8 A.M. TO NOON: Roanoke Catholic School will be hosting a traditional Irish breakfast. Menu includes eggs, corned beef hash, Irish potatoes, sausage, ham, bacon, fruit, muffins and coffee. Adults, $6; 10 and under, $4. Roanoke Catholic School Cafeteria. 982-3532.

8:30 A.M. : The school is also hosting the Shamrock Hill Distance Run. There will be a 5K and 1-mile fun run. The fun run begins at 8:30 a.m. and the 5K begins at 9:15 a.m., with registration closing at 8:15. $25. Roanoke Catholic School. 982-3532.

10 A.M. : Celtic Festival opens

10:30 A.M. : Roanoke Riverdance Challenge

10:55 TO 11:10 A.M. : Second Wynde

11 A.M. TO 1 P.M. : McDonald's St. Patrick's Parade: The parade will feature pipe and drum bands from throughout the region.

1 TO 1:20 P.M. : Jamestown Pipe Band

1:20 TO 2 P.M. : Second Wynde

2 TO 2:20 P.M. : Ceili King and Grand Marshal presentation

2:20 TO 2:40 P.M. : Warpipe

2:40 TO 3:30 P.M. : Second Wynde

3:30 TO 3:45 P.M. : Bonniest Knees Contest

3:45 TO 5 P.M. : Second Wynde

5 P.M. : Celtic Festival ends