Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at The Friendly Spot: A Family-Friendly Tradition
A Unique Holiday Experience
When you think of St. Patrick’s Day, images of lively celebrations filled with green beer and festive crowds likely come to mind. Unlike kid-friendly holidays like Halloween and Easter, St. Patrick’s Day is often dominated by the party atmosphere of bars and pubs, where the age-old caveat of "No one under 21 after 7 p.m." is the norm. Enter The Friendly Spot Icehouse, a refreshing twist on celebrating this vibrant holiday in a family-friendly setting.
A Community Hub in Southtown
Nestled in the heart of Southtown, The Friendly Spot is an inviting outdoor haven that welcomes everyone, including families with kids and pets. With rainbow slides, a spacious patio, and a variety of dining options, it stands out as a beloved community hub. Open from noon to midnight every day, it draws locals for sunlit picnics and starlit dinners, making it a go-to destination for families looking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day together.
Family-Friendly Environment
Owners Steve and Jody Newman have crafted an environment where parents can relax while their children play. With 76 craft beers on tap and a staggering “300 bottle & can brews,” you might expect a scene dominated by boisterous adults; however, the atmosphere remains warm and inviting for families. The Newman’s describe their happy hour as “#FriendlyHour,” offering special deals to enhance the experience for friends and community members alike.
Jody Newman emphasizes the welcoming nature of The Friendly Spot, stating, “We’ve been welcome to all for almost 17 years. St. Patrick’s Day is no different. We serve friendly eats from noon to midnight, and for those who don’t do beer, we can do green frozen cocktails or even sodas.”
Food and Drink Specials
While green alcohol might be the star of the day, the food offerings at The Friendly Spot are equally enticing. Half-price nachos every Tuesday and fan favorites like burgers and fish tacos draw in eager patrons. The excitement peaks when the San Antonio Spurs face off against the Sacramento Kings, promising an electric atmosphere that combines sports with holiday festivities.
“When the Spurs are doing well,” Jody mentions, “every holiday feels like on steroids. It’s wonderful for business.”
A Legacy of Community
Since its opening in 2009, The Friendly Spot has thrived as a beloved community establishment. The Newmans opened the icehouse after Steve lost his insurance job during the Great Recession, pivoting to follow a passion for creating a welcoming environment for all. The venue pays homage to an original icehouse that operated decades before, keeping the spirit alive with a commitment to community and connection.
Steve and Jody’s hands-on approach has helped them build relationships with their patrons, many of whom have become influential members of the community. Notably, former San Antonio First Lady Erika Prosper is a regular visitor, recalling the joyful memories her family has made at The Friendly Spot. Her son enjoyed the playground and movies while she savored the local brews.
A Festive Atmosphere
St. Patrick’s Day offers a unique blend of atmosphere at The Friendly Spot. The festive spirit shines through not just with beer and cocktails — from green cocktails to fizzy sodas — but also in the shared joy among families and friends bringing the community together. Prosper points out, "St. Patrick’s Day is about celebrating the luck of the Irish and people coming together. The Friendly Spot lends itself to people having a good time. It draws you in like a pot of gold."
This magical blend of family-friendly fun and adult refreshments makes The Friendly Spot a standout destination not just for St. Patrick’s Day but throughout the year.
A Year-Round Favorite
With a mix of nostalgic charm and modern offerings, The Friendly Spot continues to hold a special place in the hearts of locals. Its journey from a fledgling startup to a celebrated community hub exemplifies the importance of connection, celebration, and inclusivity. As the Newmans reflect on their journey, they attribute their success to the supportive Southtown neighborhood that has embraced their vision.
So, as you gear up for St. Patrick’s Day, consider visiting The Friendly Spot. Revel in the spirit of the holiday, relish the camaraderie, and experience a unique slice of community life where everyone is welcome. Whether you’re after a refreshing beer or a family-friendly environment, this Southtown gem has you covered.
