Every March I pull out my favorite box of decorations from my closet. It’s the day of luck, green, leprechauns and Genesis beer. March 17th is Saint Patrick's Day. It's the day that I go back to my Irish roots (not only is it my favorite holiday, but it reminds me of the homeland). Here is why St. Patrick’s Day is one of the best holidays to celebrate…
1. Luck
If you believe in superstition, then this holiday is just for you! I remember when I was little being told to wear green to avoid pinches, to leave my shoes by the door for money, and to watch out for naughty leprechauns. Of course, I believed every word of these myths, but you will not catch without something green on still to this day. Leprechaun pinches are the worst!
2. Food
One thing I absolutely love about St. Patrick’s Day is all the Irish food my family cooks. My favorite meal is corn beef and cabbage with lots of potatoes! Of course, you could have Shepherd's pie or sausages with potatoes, too. You also have to include the Genesis (but only if you’re over 21).
3. "The Quiet Man"
This movie is my hands down favorite to watch on the 17th. No, it’s not about leprechauns and magical pots of gold (like Disney’s Luck of the Irish, which is also good). The Quiet Man (directed by John Ford) features John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara in the Irish countryside falling in love with each other and their struggles. It makes me appreciate my heritage, and I fall all over in love again with anything related to Ireland.
4. Family
St. Patrick’s might be a day where you hit the pub with your friends but for me, it’s about spending time with my family. The Irish are very family oriented and that makes the day extra special for me.
5. Music
Irish instrumental music has to be the best on earth. It has a certain beauty going along with the notes and it seems magical. The Riverdance is performed to this music and I highly recommend watching a performance. You will not regret it.
6. St. Patrick
The holiday is set to honor the Catholic Saint Patrick. Legend has it that he drove all the snakes out of Ireland. The holiday also is both a solemnity and a holy day of obligation; it is also a celebration of Ireland itself.
Tá Éire sa bhaile. Tá mé bródúil as a bheith ina Éireannach. (Translation: Ireland is home. I am proud to be Irish). So enjoy the potatoes and Genesis and don’t forget to wear green! Happy St. Patrick’s Day y’all!
