Plenty of options in Newport-Mesa for St. Patrick’s Day

Did St. Patrick’s Day sneak up on you like a leprechaun this year? Here’s a sampling of festivities around Newport-Mesa, so you’ll be sure to get your fill of Guinness, corned beef and green party paraphernalia:

*

Muldoon’s (202 Newport Center Drive) is hosting its 38th annual St. Paddy’s party, which will feature Van Dieman’s Band and The Droppers providing tunes throughout the day and night. Breakfast will be served starting at 9 a.m. and Irish food and drinks will be available. The pub won’t be charging a cover.

*

Organizers of the Toshiba Classic golf tournament at the Newport Beach Country Club have been dropping clues on social media sites all weekend about where to find gold coins hidden around the course. A variety of prizes are up for grabs. The finder of a special “Pot of Gold” coin Sunday will win tickets to next year’s tournament, as well as a chance at $1 million.

*

The Orange County Market Place swap meet at the fairgrounds will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration and Green Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Irish dance troupes will perform throughout the day.

Entertainers Marston Smith, “Lord of the Cello” and Abbit the Average Leprechaun will also perform. Other activities include a number of eco-friendly crafts and games. Green beer and lemonade, along with other Irish-themed foods, will be available. Admission is $2 or free for kids 12 and younger.

*

The Harp Inn (130 E 17th Street), Wild Goose Tavern (436 E 17th Street), Durty Nelly’s (2915 Redhill Avenue) and a number of other Costa Mesa watering holes will be open early serving traditional Irish fare and with entertainment ranging from bagpipers to rugby matches streaming live.

*

If you’ve knocked back one too many pints but don’t want to wake up carless Monday, the service “Your Car Our Driver,” will send a chauffeur to drive your vehicle. Set up an account at (949) 283-0863.

jill.cowan@latimes.com

Twitter: @JillCowan