St. Patty’s Day Shenanigans!

Mila Zayats '26

Though I’m not much of a holiday person–I love watching people come together and celebrate different occasions with fun, and even random, traditions. One of those holidays is St. Patrick's Day! Or as I like to call it, St. Patty’s. Somehow, I learned the story of St. Patrick through a children's book I read when I was 5, that surprisingly didn't include much green in its illustrations. The holiday was started in 1631 to honor St. Patrick, a Patron Saint of Ireland, and to commemorate the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. In the earlier centuries, the holiday was celebrated through religious services and feasts, but over time, as the Irish immigrated to the United States, the fun and colorful celebrations of this March holiday began to form.

I’m not a very religious person, so despite its very interesting history and beginnings, I much prefer the modern day celebrations. Though I struggle to find anything green to wear as soon as it’s March 17th, and I grumble to myself as soon as I wake up knowing that I will at least get one “Where’s your green?” and about four “Are you wearing green underwear?”, I adore seeing crowds of people in various greens, having the times of their lives. And yes, I am not the biggest fan of green, but not many people are lovers of the vibrant color, so I think it is right for us to have a day where we indirectly celebrate such a color with such range. From calming sage and beautiful emeralds, to Shrek and his swamp alongside Oscar the Grouch, I think green is a color with many talents. And I know that St. Patrick’s isn’t the least bit patriotic but that’s what makes it appealing! Many places devote this one day to celebrate a country whose culture and people may be so different from their own, yet for one day, it feels like someone randomly threw green paint buckets across the world. 

If you’re not one for going out to the pubs, then I strongly recommend you try some delicious Irish food even from the comfort of your couch! You can probably UberEat it and the food will get to you safe and sound despite the Irish ruckus occurring outside your door. Bread pudding, seafood chowder, shepherd’s pie, boxty, bangers and mash, and even some pasties are sure to keep you full throughout your day of festivities! And you can't forget the classic Irish shortbread for your sweet tooth, and if you’re daring–then try some black pudding! Though it may look unsettling, it’s really good, especially alongside a full Irish brekkie. 

Despite some who view dressing up for a holiday as tacky, I enjoy it as it reminds me of being a kid with no worries other than how a multicolor wig looks. Many stores go all out for this small but mighty holiday, devoting several sections of their aisles to sprouting green ribbons and banners, with Irish flags on hats and bows, and shamrock everything. Such a holiday brings in millions for business due to customer demand; not only is it fun but profitable! You can even have a St. Pat’s themed party as a way to catch up with friends and celebrate something just for the sake of it. 

Of course, if you haven’t been to Ireland, and it’s on your bucket list then St. Patrick’s is probably one of the best times to go! You get immersed in Irish culture during their serious celebrations of their own holiday all while exploring a new country. And if Ireland hasn’t yet nestled itself onto your list of places you wish to travel to, add it quickly! From the bustling Dublin, to smaller Limerick, Galway, and Cork, and the many country towns surrounded by green grass and cows–there are bucket list worthy destinations for everyone. Explore the beautiful castles, the gigantic cliffs, and quaint yet colorful towns and of course, take lots and lots of pictures! You could make a St. Patrick’s Adventures scrapbook to remember your travels.

So this March 17th, don’t be a Debbie downer and embrace the green, the beards, and the shamrocks! Buy some fun green shirts and sparkly necklaces, and search for a fun, ginger beard! Enjoy the festivities while accepting your inner leprechaun for the day! Happy St. Patrick’s!!
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Sources:
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Saint-Patricks-Day
https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g35325053/traditional-irish-food-dishes/

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