Tyrone hopes to capitalize on its Irish heritage this spring as the town gets ready to stage its first St. Patrick’s Day festival.

According to an email from recreation director Kay Green, the festival will occur March 17 and feature several events. A parade will lead off the celebration at 10 a.m. and go down a route from Handley Park to Shamrock Park. At 11 a.m., a dog costume contest with an Irish theme is set, while games for the whole family begins at noon. At 2 p.m., a scavenger hunt for all ages will take place.

Green said there will be non-profit groups selling food and drinks.

But after Thursday night’s Town Council meeting, Town Manager Barry Amos made it clear that green beer won’t be flowing through the streets.

“We were actually approached by Guinness Beer who wanted to sponsor the festival and provide free beer,” he said.

Amos said the town rejected the offer, because the focus of the festival is on the family.