St. Patrick’s Day is a fun day that’s celebrated by those who are Irish (and those who are a “wee-bit Irish” for the day!).  During the pandemic, parades have been cancelled and many restaurants/bars are closed.  You can still make the fun happen at home with some of our ideas. But who is St. Patrick and why do we celebrate this holiday?

According to Britannica.com, St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. Born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century, he was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He escaped but returned about 432 to convert the Irish to Christianity. By the time of his death on March 17, 461, he had established monasteries, churches, and schools. Many legends grew up around him—for example, that he drove the snakes out of Ireland and used the shamrock to explain the Trinity. Ireland came to celebrate his day with religious services and feasts. Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17.

5 Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Home

1. Make Irish Food

Celebrate the day with traditional Irish dishes such as classic corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew and Irish soda bread. We found great recipes on FoodNetwork.com to inspire you in the kitchen.  We are also inspired by the dessert/treat recipes we found on GoodHousekeeping.com.  You can bake shamrock cookies, whip up shamrock shakes, enjoy grasshopper bars or Bailey’s brownies.  So many fun ways to get the family together in the kitchen to celebrate.

2. Irish Party Supplies

Deck out the house with Irish decor!  Hang shamrock garland from the fireplace or in the kitchen.  Add green shamrock cut-outs on windows or on tables.  Add more fun with personalized St. Patrick’s Day party supplies like napkins, plates and cups.  Top off the day with fun hats, shamrock necklaces and wearing your favorite green top.

3.  Enjoy Green Beer

You don’t need a crowded bar to enjoy this tradition.  Enjoy your favorite beer with some green food dye. Whether it’s a pint of Guinness or something else, why not raise your glass and say an Irish toast?

“May your troubles be less, and your blessings be more. And nothing but happiness come through your door.”

4.  Watch an Irish Movie

After enjoying a traditional Irish meal, why not relax and watch an Irish movie?  You can explore the 50 best Irish films ever made from the Irish Times to get ideas.  Some classics are The Quiet Man, My Left Foot and Brooklyn.   Don’t forget to make some green popcorn to enjoy during the movie!

5.  Celebrate Virtually

While many parades have been cancelled, you can still celebrate virtually. Ireland’s 2021 St. Patrick’s Festival will run from March 12 through 17 on a dedicated TV channel and website. You can celebrate by watching musicians, artists, and of course, marching bands.

How will you celebrate this year?  Tell us in the comments below!

XO,

Jennifer