Boston offers plenty to do over spring break

Even if you're staying in Boston over spring break, you don't necessarily need to spend all your time in the library. Since Cancun-style beach parties are unlikely, you can celebrate the spring weather or a break from classes with these upcoming events happening around the city.

St. Patrick's Day Parade: The annual St. Patty's Day Parade will take place in South Boston on Sunday, March 15, starting at 1 p.m. The parades celebrates Boston's Irish heritage with floats and music, and in the past has featured small children in leprechaun costumes. The parade route goes between the Broadway and Andrew stops on the Red Line.

Flamenco Dancing: Bar Lola in Back Bay features flamenco performances every Sunday at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. This would a great idea for a not-so-average date night and, if the weather gets cold again, a great place to get drinks inside and watch dancers turn up the heat. The restaurant, which also features a full tapas menu, is located on Commonwealth Ave.

Dropkick Murphys concert: The famous Boston-based Celtic rock band is taking up a six night residency at House of Blues Boston. Starting March 12 and continuing through the 17th, the band will play seven shows — one a night plus a special matinee show on the March 14 — at the recently opened venue on Lansdowne Street. Tickets are $29.50 and are available at ticketmaster.com.

Clam shucking lessons: For a less Irish-themed activity happening over Spring Break, check out the free oyster and clam shucking lessons at Mercato del Mare, located on Salem Street in Boston's North End. Every Saturday from 1:00-3:00 p.m., expert shuckers teach this little-known skill to curious gourmets, and, after the lesson, students can pick up fresh seafood in-store to practice their new skills at home.