There’s no doubt that wherever you are, there’ll be a nearby pub offering you Guinness and green beer – amongst patrons wearing large, comical green hats – to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Australia.
However, St Patrick’s Day is more than downing one too many alcoholic Irish drinks. It is, indeed, a day of – and for – the Irish. The day, 17 March, marks the date of death of Saint Patrick (c. AD 385–461), the patron saint of Ireland, and commemorates the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. It is also a day where the Irish celebrate what it means to be Irish. Understandably, 17 March a public holiday in Ireland.
While we do not have the luxury of a public holiday, these five ideas will help you to get into the spirit on St Patrick’s Day – whether you’re Irish or not.
1. Tuck into a big Irish breakfast
Make your way to an Irish pub for the fantastic Irish festivities, electric atmosphere and a big feast of Irish tucker. Think fried potatoes, blood pudding, baked beans, hash browns and fried eggs. P.J. O’Brien’s in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Cairns are offering an Irish breakfast of breakfasts with a pint of Guinness (or a glass of sparkling) for $25, from 8–11am.
More at pjobriens.com.au
2. Learn to Irish dance
Irish dancing is a type of step dancing. Why not learn some Irish moves by attending classes in your local area? Or you could learn in the privacy of your own home with online videos and tutorials. With a few ‘jigs’ under your belt, not only will you impress your friends and family, but you’ll also increase your flexibility and burn calories while having fun! Try setdancing.com.au
3. Listen to Irish music
If you’re not up dancing, you could listen to some Irish music instead. With its long history in music, Ireland has many styles that have emerged over the years, including Celtic, folk and traditional Irish pub songs. So get into the St Patrick’s Day spirit by playing some Irish music at home (try YouTube, Spotify or Pandora), or find out about any Irish bands or musicians playing locally.
4. Learn some Irish
The Irish have their own distinct dialect. So if you want to sound like a true Paddy on St Patrick’s Day, why not add these words and phrases to your vocabulary?
What’s the craic? is used in non-formal settings, and can be used for “How’s it going?”, “What’s going on?” or “What’s up?”.
Craic (pronounced ‘crack’) is a very common word in Ireland, and is used to describe your enjoyment of an event or activity. The closest definition of craic is ‘fun’.
Eejit is to playfully call someone an idiot. For example, if someone does something silly or stupid, you can say, “Ah, ya big eejit!” It’s not used offensively.
If you want to get a little more serious with learning the Irish lingo, why not try duolingo, a free app.
5. Travel to Ireland
The most exorbitant of the ideas suggested, but perhaps the most fun way to celebrate this quintessential Irish holiday? You’ll want to plan, so why not look into booking the trip today for next year’s celebrations? The capital city, Dublin, usually holds a five-day festival with the largest and most impressive St Patrick’s Day parade. Of course, the city buzzes with locals and tourists alike. It’s one big party, and you’ll be sure to have great craic.
Have fun whatever you’re doing this St Patrick’s Day. Sláinte!
