4, 3, 2, 1

In a big hurry because I've got work to do, I complete my Ten Things Not To Miss At Irish Fest.

4. The Kelihans. The band that made its mark in the mud of 2003 keeps getting better and better. I love these guys. A new CD is released this weekend. When you hear them, you'll buy one.

3. Fest Food. I'm eating nothing healthy all weekend. And I'm going to love every minute of it. Join me in some fish and chips, won't you? Funnel cake anyone? It was festivals are for.

2. The After Parties. I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to this. Raglan Road is the most beautiful pub in Kansas City and these parties will be great. Ride the shuttle and hoist a pint with us. At 11:00, we'll just be getting started. All three nights of the fest.

1. You. We do this for you, you know. As much as we have a good time when we get together - and believe me, we do - the staff and directors of Irish Fest work all year for these next three days for you, our friends, our city, our extended Irish family across the country. We hope to see a lot of old friends and make even more new ones this weekend. When you see us, please say hello.