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!).  We’ve put together some fun ways to celebrate this beloved holiday. But why do we always see four-leaf clovers and shamrocks every St. Patty’s Day?

According to Better Homes & Gardens, four-leaf clovers commonly appear in centuries-old legends as symbols of good luck. The Druids (Celtic priests), in the early days of Ireland, believed that when they carried a three-leaf clover or shamrock, they could see evil spirits coming and have a chance to escape in time. Four-leaf clovers were Celtic charms, presumed to offer magical protection and ward off bad luck.  So how does this relate to St. Patrick’s Day?  As a priest, St. Patrick traveled back to Ireland to bring the word of Christianity to the Irish people. It’s said that he used shamrocks to explain the Holy Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) to the Irish people, which is why shamrocks are a popular St. Patrick’s Day decoration now.

5 Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

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.  Watch a Parade

Whether you go to a parade or watch virtually, a St. Patrick’s Day parade is always a lot of fun. Ireland’s  St. Patrick’s Festival has a virtual option on a dedicated TV channel and website. You can celebrate by watching musicians, artists, and of course, marching bands.

Do you have any St. Patrick’s Day celebration traditions?  Tell us in the comments below!

XO,

Jennifer