ShamROCK, San Diego’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day block party, hits the streets of downtown on March 17. “We had about 15,000 people come last year and we expect as many this year,” McFarlane Promotions Director of Public Relations Natalie Gomez said. Headlining the event are the Young Dubliners, an Irish punk rock band playing from 7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. With three stages and several city blocks fenced off, there will be no shortage of entertainment. Lexington Field is scheduled to play as well as The Fooks, Down’s Family and The Shamrockers. There will also be a slew of DJ’s performing, including DJ BDP, Mac Love, Sid Vicious and many others. This year, in addition to the regular $25 tickets, organizers are offering Club VIP upgrades for the first time. While regular admission gets patrons various food and drink specials as well as free covers at participating clubs and bars, VIP upgrades are an additional $25 and include special perks such as additional food and drink discounts as well as private bathrooms within ShamROCK. In all, 30 bars and restaurants are participating in the event that has become a popular destination for people who want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in San Diego. “We’re definitely expecting another sellout this year,” Gomez said about shamROCK, which sold out last year. “So many people come from all around the country, It’s great.” Early in the evening traditional Irish step-dancers and musicians will keep audiences jigging. Go-go dancers dressed in schoolgirl outfits will spice things up and 60,000 square feet of green carpet is expected to provide comfort and flair. The main entrance for ShamROCK is located at 5th Avenue and G Street. Several blocks in the Gaslamp Quarter will be blocked off for the event, including F Street between 5th and 7th avenues, 6th Avenue between E and G streets and G Street between 5th and 6th avenues.   One of the most unique aspects of the event is a free shuttle ride home. “Anyone can get a free ride home between 9 p.m. and 1 a.m. with a ShamROCK ticket,” Gomez said. “It takes you right to your front door, anywhere in San Diego County. We recommend taking the trolley down or getting a ride and taking the shuttle home.” ShamROCK festivities and entertainment gets underway at 4 p.m. and finishes up at midnight. For more detailed information or to purchase tickets go to www.sandiegoshamrock.com. Tickets can also be purchased at 544 5th Ave. or by calling (619) 233-5008.