Every year on March 17^th, people from around the world get out and celebrate and see a parade, drink beer, and wear green. But why do they do this? Well, it is Saint Patrick’s Day, of course! But did you know that the holiday isn’t just about drinking a pint of Guinness, or pinching those who aren’t wearing green? The story of St. Patrick goes all the way back to the year 461 A.D. when the Saint died. We celebrate this day to commemorate the Christian religion to Ireland. The holiday was made a ‘feast day’ in the 1600s and is meant to celebrate Irish culture and heritage. I myself am a proud Irish descendant who really loves the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day. Almost every year I try and make it out to the parade and hear lovely music, see wonderfully choreographed Irish dancing, and of course enjoy a nice pint of Guinness.

But did you know that the whole Irish drinking aspect of St. Paddy’s day was kind of just thrown in there by people adapting the holiday? Since the holiday falls in between Lent, it is seen as a day to be able to feast, and to some, that meant drinking alcohol -- which is precisely what I have given up for lent this year. But after doing some research, I won’t have to worry about cheating for one day. Pretty cool to learn. So, here are a few things you can do to pay respect to Irish culture, and even just take a part in the beautiful history of the nation.

1. Irish music.

I would recommend just getting some Irish music going in the background! I have downloaded a couple of playlists and have just been reveling in the beautiful sounds of the instruments and their upbeat tones (even though the Irish have had a rather harsh backstory).

2. Purchase a book on Irish history.

I would recommend getting a book on Irish history and brushing up on some of the aspects (my favorite is the modern history) and just learning about a rich culture.

3. Learn the culture.

See if your community has some cool Irish ties, or places and events that practice the Irish arts. Then learn the culture and just immerse yourself in it.

4. Travel to Ireland.

Get some plane tickets over to Ireland. Just kidding, but I wish I could really go to the ‘homeland’ and learn about the culture firsthand.

But, you still should...

5. Go grab a green shirt.

Dressing up puts you in the spirit.

6. Pinch anyone who isn’t wearing green.

Because shame on them!

7. Go to an authentic Irish pub.

Order yourself some Irish whiskey or a nice pint of Guinness and enjoy!

I love the holiday for all of its cool history and general upbeatness. With spring right around the corner, it just seems right to marvel in the beauty that is Ireland and their amazing culture. So on that note, have a wonderful St. Patrick’s day laddies, and make sure you don yourself in some green!

(But on a serious note, if you do decide to go out and have a beer or two, please don’t drink and drive. We want you to have the luck of the Irish on this special day, and you can’t do that behind bars!)