The United Way of Southwest Louisiana invites Southwest Louisiana residents to “Shake Your Shamrock at the 2022 Battle for the Paddle” Thursday, March 17. This event, held at the Lake Charles Civic Center Amphitheatre is family friendly and includes free music entertainment by LA ROXX, an ’80s cover band and a free Kids Zone with face painting, special coloring pages and inflatable slide.

It’s a great way to celebrate with a wee bit o’ fun on St. Patrick’s Day, plus proceeds benefit the United Way of Southwest Louisiana, an organization with programs that help “as many individuals as it can, in as many ways as it can,” said President and CEO Denise Durel.

The event may be themed Irish and the beer served may be green but the food is jambalaya and pastalaya sure to be spiced-just-right

“So far 18 teams have signed up to cook,” Durel said.

Teams can cook both dishes for a $750 entry fee or one or the other for $500. Registration ends soon. Prizes, in addition to bragging rights, include a stainless engraved paddle.

“For $15, you can sample any or all of the competing teams’ dishes,” Durel said, “and vote for the People’s Choice Winner.”

The VIP Ticket is available for $50. It includes unlimited food, beer, wine, soft drinks or water, plus premier seating.

Don the green and orange and prepare to toast with the word, sláinte (SLAHN-chə), which means “a drink to your health.”

“We’re inviting guests to dress up in their best St. Paddy Day outfit,” Durel said. “It’s OK to throw orange in the mix since it’s a color of the Flag of Ireland.”

It’s also possible to help through volunteering time or sponsoring the event. To volunteer, text keyword STPADDY to 40403. To sponsor, call (337) 433-1088.

A limited number of presale jambalaya lunch-to-go tickets are available for $10. These plates will need to be picked up on Thursday, March 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Group orders are encouraged. Jambalaya and pastalaya dinner-to-go tickets are $10 for pick up at the event.

For more Battle for the Paddle 2022 info, go to UNITEDWAYSWLA.ORG/BATTLE or contact liveunited@unitedwayswla.org or call 337-433-1088.w