Still confused how to style your bright green top sitting at the back of your wardrobe? Don’t you worry... we're here to help you channel your inner Irish-ness just in time for St Patrick's Day. Before that, a quick history brief! St. Patrick’s Day celebrates the life of Saint Patrick, who was one of the most important figures in Irish Catholic history. A popular myth claims that the Saint banished all the snakes out of Ireland. Now, allow us to walk you through the international lanes of St. Patty’s Day, and along the way we'll pick up few inspirational tips for our big green day.

Celebrations all around the world  

Dublin is the place to be and has the biggest festival celebrating the patron saint with a hearty and flamboyant parade. US gives another edge to the day, by turning the Chicago River emerald green tinge for day.

It’s sad that here in Hong Kong we don’t have a public holiday for it, but it doesn't mean that we can't get involve in the festivities! All around the world and here at home, people get into the Irish spirit and dress up in their best fancy dress, repping four-leaf clover paint on their face or bodies. Get ready to drink, dance and sing with some of the best St Patrick's Day events in Hong Kong!  

Whip out some Irish moves

If you're more of a homebody and don't fancy a pub crawl, we've got you covered with some ideas for a day in. Play some music, and learn how to céili (kay-lee) -a form of Irish social dancing. If you are feeling confident about your moves, who knows, we might see you performing in the next St. Patrick's Day parade!

A Green Party!

Photo by Hello Fresh

If you are staying home, why not spice things up a bit? A little green themed gathering with family and friends will get you in the mood. We’ve got 3 green dishes lined up for your party! Start off with a starter with our ever-so-favourite guacamole and nachos (tip: use Doritos). But, if you don’t like guca, make an avocado-hummus dip that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. For mains, let’s keep it a little simple, light but still flavoursome - a broccoli pesto with pasta or alternatively an equally indulgent spinach risotto. Finish off with some chocolate mint cream cupcakes with all the green sprinkles. No party is complete without some drinks, make the not-so traditional green beer, all you need is beer and some food colouring. And voilà!

DIY Decorations

Mason jars aren't just for smoothies and overnight oats! Head to your nearest stationary shop, splash some green and light paint on the jars (or any drinking glasses) and use it as a straw holder or even enjoy your cold beer in it. Throw in some beautiful white flowers or yellow tulips in them and use it as a centrepiece. Feeling crafty? Cut out some paper shamrocks, and make a bunting or a wreath out of it. This can also be used a party game, time the groups and see who makes the most creative one!

The Irish 

Need some last minute decorations or flowers for the holiday? Shop our St Paddys Day special and we'll send it right to your doorstep - little pot of "gold" included of course!

Activities

A scavenger hunt is no doubt one of the kid’s favourite, but add a festive twist to it and use gold chocolate coins instead! Adults can play Irish Trivia but make sure to remind your guests to have a quick read up on Irish history beforehand. All you need to do is google moments in Irish history and cultural importance, ask the questions and the one with most correct answers wins the game.

Learn something new

Before we bid you goodbye, we will teach a few Irish words. To greet your guest for your St. Patrick’s Day gathering, you say “Dia dhuit” (Pronunciation: Djee-ah gwitch) and it means hello. And after eating all the good food, you say “Go raibh maith agat” (Pronunciation: Guh row mah aguth, cow for row) and it means thank you.

Let us know how your St Patricks Day party goes!