Generations of proud Irish Americans (and those who are Irish at heart) have honored what was once a modest Irish feast day since the founding of the United States and transformed it into the green-themed festival we know and love. Today, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated worldwide on March 17 and we could definitely all use this occasion to celebrate and have some fun.
Though the usual St. Patrick’s Day parades and parties may be on hold, there are still plenty of ways to make the day special and full of luck for the family by enjoying St. Patrick's Day with fun, games and great food at home.
St. Patrick's Day DIY Decor
When celebrating at home, a great way to spend the day is with a St. Patrick’s Day party for the entire family. Decorate the living room and/or kitchen with a gorgeous green banner, and add this festive tiered tray as a centerpiece like Andrea, who blogs at her site Living On Cloud Nine 9. She went all out with this stunning display that features a glittery Leprechaun hat, shamrocks, a letterboard and a pot of gold!
Sweet Shamrock Crafts
The kids will love joining in by creating these sweet Shamrocks using — get this — toilet paper rolls! We spotted this one on the website, Crafty Morning, where blogger Michelle has come up with a great way to keep those tiny hands busy, and we’ve got to say, the results are definitely worthy of being displayed in a nice spot on the refrigerator. She also has a super cute idea for a leprechaun craft with a genius fork print beard.
Pots O' Gold
Use some mason jars as a lovely way to spread a bit of Irish cheer to neighbors or teachers. Polka Dot Chair blogger Melissa, makes these cute Pot O' Gold mason jar gifts. Just fill the jars with gold-wrapped candy and add a little paint and a printable tag (the website gives full directions and provides downloadable printable tags).
Coloring Craft for Adults
Adults love craft projects, too! This one from Balancing Home will satisfy grown-up creatives while also being able to relax and unwind while enjoying a green brew during the St. Paddy’s Day celebrations. Megan offers this free printable that is easy to color in — grab the green markers!
A Leprechaun Hunt
The Fickle Pickle blog has figured out a way to try to catch those pesky little leprechauns! By leaving a trail of lucky treats leading to a pot of gold and rainbow cupcakes (sounds like a yummy setup), guests might be able to trap a leprechaun, but … maybe not. Visit The Fickle Pickle for all of the very green steps she’s come up with to have the most fun and festive St. Patrick’s Day yet.
Let the St. Paddy's Games Begin!
If there's a larger group of folks looking to celebrate with games and fun competitions for everyone — from age 5 to grandparents! — Britni at Play Party Plan has the party covered. Visit the site for fun challenges, team games, and even bowling with potatoes!
Must-Have Irish-Inspired Meals & Treats
Start St. Patrick's Day off with these savory scones shaped like lucky four-leaf clovers by Food Network Kitchen. Or dig into this rich and tender rustic soda bread recipe with some corned beef and cabbage (here’s a great slow cooker recipe from Spend With Pennies blogger Holly), or this mouth-watering beef stew recipe. How about this traditional Irish dish called colcannon? It’s a buttery, creamy mix of mashed potatoes and cabbage, but this recipe from Delish uses kale. A must for any day but especially St. Patrick’s Day!
Save Room for Sweets!
The kids will love these Lucky Charms treats from Show Me The Yummy, or mini rainbow cupcakes from Kelly Senyei at Just a Taste that are sure to disappear before the leprechauns can grab them. Or make these candy coated pretzel rods.
For an adult dessert, how do Shamrock macarons with Baileys chocolate ganache sound? Yes, indeed! Find the recipe here from blogger Steph at Raspberri Cupcakes.
And for those not into green beer, try a Shamrock Sour cocktail out for size. Courtney at Pizzazzerie promises it’s so good that it’ll become a favorite St. Paddy’s Day cocktail.
