Each year on March 17, it seems like everything looks a little greener. It is St. Patrick’s Day when food and beer turn unique shades of green and not wearing green means getting pinched all day. Officially, it is a day to honor St. Patrick and recognize people of Irish descent. In modern history, it has become a day of parties, parades and fun for everyone, not just those with Irish heritage. Here are three ideas to include as part of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with friends and family.
Eat Green Food for St. Patrick’s Day
Kids will think it is funny, some adults will find it disturbing, but serving everyday foods in shades of green is a popular practice on St. Patrick’s Day. If eating regular food with a green tint is too strange, simply serve a meal of foods that are naturally green. Pick from fresh produce such as spinach, green beans and grapes. Mix up a tasty guacamole dip, sip on green tea and end with a slice of key lime pie.
If experimenting with other green foods sounds fun, consider these classic favorites with a bit of green food coloring. That, plus some adventurous tasters, is all it takes to make St. Patrick’s Day dinner special.
- milk or milkshakes
- mashed potatoes
- peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
Decorate for St. Patrick’s Day
When choosing decorations for St. Patrick’s Day, think green, shamrocks and pots of gold. The following ideas work equally well whether used for a big party or as household décor in the weeks leading up to the holiday. Check the seasonal departments of big box stores such as Target and crafts stores for premade decorations or search online for instructions on how to make them.
- Shamrock garland Get the kids involved and keep it simple, or make a more elaborate garland with nicer materials and embellishments.
- Green balloons Nothing is easier or more festive than decorating with balloons. Choose shades of green and gold for St. Patrick’s Day.
- Rainbow table decorations Hang strips of crepe paper in rainbow colors above the dinner table or party food table. Sprinkle the tabletop with gold glitter and some gold-wrapped chocolate coins.
Wear Green for St. Patrick’s Day
Not wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day often results in pinches, but it is often hard to find something green when getting dressed that morning. Plan for the holiday ahead of time with these easy ways to make sure everyone in the family has something green to wear before heading out the door on St. Patrick’s Day.
- Make a simple pin by cutting a shamrock shape out of green felt and gluing to a safety pin.
- Tie green ribbon around a ponytail or run through belt loops.
- Paint a shamrock on kids’ faces with non-toxic craft paint.
St. Patrick’s Day is a fun holiday for everyone to take part in regardless of heritage. The easiest ways to celebrate include eating green food, decorating with holiday icons (shamrocks and rainbows, etc.) and, of course, wearing something green.
Karen Perkins - Karen Perkins is a freelance writer focusing on decorating, entertaining and crafting. A background in interior design combined with a ...
Join the Conversation