When growing up 20 miles away from the Irish capitol of the Nebraska, you learn a few things. So in lou of the recent 50th celebration of the St. Patty's day celebration, here's what I learned from the great town of O'Neill, Nebraska.
1. When people ask where your from and your in 30 miles or less of O'Neill, just tell them your from O'Neill because chances are they haven't heard of your small town.
But everyone knows where O'Neill is.
2. Pro tip: don't speed to get anywhere on the weekend of St. Patty's day.
The cops will pick you up, 100 percent.
3. Green beer is a thing and you better believe that people of Irish heritage are going to drink it.
4. If you are a business owner in the town of O'Neill, you better believe you will be open because it's like Christmas all over again.
5. The banks will be open so that you can go cash your check to buy more green beer.
6. Main street will be blocked all day even if it is a major highway so either avoid downtown or park and come enjoy the celebration.
7. It's true that while your in college, most people will ask to come home with you for the weekend just to celebrate!
8. If you want to raise money fast then ask for a fundraiser for a green paved shamrock in the middle of the street.
9. When you come to the parade, you will see a green horse being ridden. Don't freak, it's perfectly normal. You might even see it inside a bar. I assure you, it's not the alcohol playing tricks on you.
10. Last but not least, you will see men in kilts playing the bag pipes. It's Saint Patty's day, what did you expect?
Growing up by the Irish capitol of Nebraska has been fun! While some stay far away from the town on Saint Patrick's day weekend, most of us are out enjoying the special heritage and being the life of the party. Because after all, there is nothing better than small town traditions.
