Downtown gears up for holiday weekend

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - It’s a big weekend. Downtown Indianapolis was packed during the lunch rush Friday as Hoosier fans lined up to watch the IU game against the Illini.

The win marked the perfect start to the St. Patrick’s Day festivities.

“I don't think I've ever gone to school on St. Patrick's Day a day of my life, but now that I'm a real adult I still try and does St. Patrick’s Day stuff. We were going to go to the parade but the IU game is a priority,” says IU fan Chelsea Kane.

Those on Georgia Street not watching the game were outside setting up tents for the big weekend celebration.

“I'm really excited that we have this, it really bring life to the city. I think it gives us something else to do besides being inside,” Kane said.

Not too long ago, business owners along Georgia Street complained as construction dragged on before the Super Bowl. The owner of The Pub says, now that's its behind them, they've been able to benefit.

“We took a big loss turning the alley into Georgia Street but we rebounded,” says Gordon Cocke owner of The Pub. “I had to turn some of our regulars away because they had to work and they couldn't wait that long.”