St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are a time-honoured tradition. Little known to the average party-goer, the day observes the death of Ireland’s foremost patron saint, attributed with bringing Christianity to the Island. On March 17th, people around the world will drink, consume a ton of green food dye, and insist that they are, indeed, Irish (just a little). Whether you descend from the Emerald Isle or not, keep reading for 5 ideas on how to celebrate the day (with or without alcohol).
1. Choose a green outfit (you’ll actually wear):
If you forget to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day, you may find yourself getting pinched. Don’t ask me why. I don’t make the rules. Now, you can buy a funny t-shirt you’ll only wear once (a valid option) or, you can invest in a staple piece you’ll wear again and again. Green basics or more subtle accessories are a great way to celebrate without being over the top. Subtly festive, fiscally responsible, and fashionable. What more do you want?
2. Make a St. Patrick’s Day feast
Full. Irish. Breakfast. We’ve all had bacon and eggs, but you haven’t truly experienced a morning fry-up until you’ve had a full Irish Breakfast. Black pudding, sausages, baked beans, eggs, grilled mushrooms, hash browns, fried tomato, and (if you’re lucky) Irish soda bread. I lived on this in Ireland and was always full well into the afternoon. If you ever have the good fortune to travel there, make sure to stop in at Mother Hubbard’s in Ballyonan. You won’t regret it.
3. Make (Real) Irish Coffee
When asked what you’re drinking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, don’t let the answer be ‘alcohol.’ Not just any alcohol at least! For an Irish-inspired drink at home, impress your friends by making real Irish coffee. The actual drink is a hot cocktail consisting of Irish whiskey, coffee, and sugar, topped with cream. If this isn’t your speed just make an appletini or anything else that’s green – food dye is a must!
St. Patrick’s Day at Home
If partying isn’t your thing (ditto), movie night is always an excellent option. Put on your shamrock jammies, grab some snacks and cue up your favorite St. Patrick’s Day pick (Leap Year and Boondock Saints are classics in my household)!
St. Patrick’s Day on the Town
If a trip to Ireland is out of your budget this year, St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to check out local Irish pubs. If you’re in the Ottawa area, I can’t recommend Brigid’s Well Pub on St. Patrick Street strongly enough. It’s an authentic Irish pub, in a church basement, frequented by talented local musicians. Need I say more?
Conclusion:
While St. Patrick’s Day is often seen as a day to get drunk and party, there are lots of ways to celebrate while foregoing the booze. Drink responsibly, ladies and gents, Ireland has more to offer than whiskey and Guinness. Above all, be safe and have fun.
If you need tips on staying sober check out Kate’s post.
