Security was tight for the 24th annual ShamRock! block party in Downtown San Diego on Saturday night, but for many revelers, it was green beer, music and having a good time.
The police presence was a welcomed sight for Kennetha Perkins and her friend Britney Workman who were visiting from Phoenix, Arizona.
"I think it's nice," Perkins said. "It's kind of in the background but it gives you a bit of security."
San Diego Police Department (SDPD) Capt. Mike Holden said the department spent weeks planning for this event and much of the security for the event is behind the scenes and out of the public eye. He said their job was to keep people safe.
"Our officers are down here to ensure the safety of everyone," Holden said. "We have numerous officers who are here right now and we'll have more officers come in as the night wears on."
ShamROCK! is one of the largest St. Patrick Day's celebrations on the West Coast, according to organizers. An estimated 20,000 people were expected to fill the Gaslamp District for the revelry.
"I'm going to rely on them to do their job and I'm gonna have fun," Christina Sauceda said.
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Sauceda is also taking some personal responsibility in keeping everyone safe. She and her friends planned on taking Lyft and Uber home after a night of partying.
Holden said officers will out in force to make sure no one will be drinking and driving.
"We have checkpoints tonight as well as officers roving the city looking for DUIs," he said.
