ERIN GO BRAGH!
Lepracon raises a ‘pot of gold’ to help fight cancer
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. » Hundreds of people gathered downtown Saturday, hopping from bar to bar to raise money for the American Cancer Society.
Brian Miller, who organizes Santacon each December, decided a celebration prior to St. Patrick’s Day called Lepracon would be a good idea. Last year, there were a couple hundred Lepracon participants; this year, Miller expected even more.
The day began with Kegz & Eggz brunch at Harvey’s. But the first stop, where participants could register for the pub crawl, was at Bailey’s.
Elizabeth Hunter, development manager of distinguished events for the local American Cancer Society office, was approached by Miller last year about Lepracon.
“Since Santacon was so successful[we thought] this would be a great opportunity to engage the community again in a fun way downtown for a good cause,” Hunter said.
A bagpiper signaled for participants to move to the next spot throughout the afternoon. Stops included Peabody’s, The Icehouse, Clancy’s Tavern, Dango’s, Gaffney’s, Saratoga City Tavern, Spa City Tap and Barrel, Caroline Street Pub and The Parting Glass.
Throughout the day, Lepracon participants had a chance to win prizes, such as an at-home bar system, a Boston getaway to see The Dropkick Murphys, or the big “pot of gold” at the end of the rainbow: a $50 gift card from each of the participating business.
For that prize, all Lepracon attendees received a lock combination at the start of the event, which they checked on the locked pot of gold at Caroline Street Pub.
Proceeds for the event went to the American Cancer Society in the Capital Region.
“We have our Hope Club, so we provide emotional and educational support and fund a lot of research,” explained Hunter.
Participants wore different green festive outfits. Some rocked hats, others wore necklaces, and all helped create a fun atmosphere throughout the day.
“We are really lucky. I live in Saratoga, so I’m really lucky to work with [the bars]
throughout the year. They always support our different causes,” said Hunter. “It’s incredible to see, these bar owners and bartenders really do rally around it. Whether it’s a monetary donation, or them sharing it on social media, getting their bartenders behind it. They really do go way out of their way. I can’t thank them enough.”