March 17th is quickly approaching, and worldwide, people will celebrate the Patron Saint of Ireland in what must be the most globally popular National day, anywhere. St Patrick’s Day originated in the 17th Century as a Christian feast day, but the celebrations have evolved into food, drinks, and the wearing of green to symbolize shamrocks and the pride of the Emerald Isle.
While it’s customary to participate in the “wearing of the green” – traditionally a green item of clothing or a shamrock – the latest fad of drinking green beer is relatively new, and quintessentially American Irish (much like Chicago who turn an entire river green). If you want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and perhaps your own Irish roots, I’m going to be sharing a few ways you can do so at home authentically.
I think the reason so many people celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is not because where they are from or where they feel pride, but because the Irish are known to be the most welcoming people and go to great lengths to share their hospitality. Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day goes beyond food and drink – it’s all about who you share the fares with, and “having the craic.”
My St. Patrick’s Day Plans
This year, I’ll be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at home, which means I’ll be playing host to friends and family who will be gathering at my place. I want to make it a casual get together, so I’ll be grilling some burgers now that the weather is picking up, and putting together an outdoor afternoon of low-key activities and a few adult drinks, such as Mike’s Hard Lemonade, to make everyone feel welcome.
One game that always goes down well, and has roots in Irish culture, is Cornhole, but you can also throw in some coin toss, or ask guests to wear green to make it feel festive. Outside, I’ll be playing Irish music (such as Dropkick Murphy’s and Flogging Molly), in the hopes of starting a “wee jig.” The best part about St. Patrick’s Day is that it doesn’t take much time or effort to have a good time.
The best way to ensure your guests feel included is to be a gracious host and make sure you have enough food and drink. Consider throwing in a few veggie options for people who don’t eat meat and remember that not everyone wants green beer forced upon them in the name of St. Patrick. Mike’s Hard Lemonade has tons of refreshing flavors and can be stored in a cooler for that last-minute guest.
Here’s a delicious St. Patrick’s Day cocktail you can mix using Mike’s Hard Lemonade:
Directions: Mix 1 bottle of Mike’s Hard Lemonade original or Hard BLOOD, with 1 shot of blue curacao and ½ shot melon liquor, and serve over ice. Garnish with a slice of lemon or lime.
Whatever way you choose to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Mike’s Hard Lemonade is a great way to make your adult guests feel at home. With tons of refreshing flavors, it’s time to “squeeze” some fun into the day. Pick up a 6- or 12-pack at participating stores, and look for the Limited Edition “My Party Picks” sampler with Hard BLOOD, which has festive orange accents for your St. Patrick’s Day party!
Thank you, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, for sponsoring this post.
