How to Celebrate and Get Involved in St Patrick’s Day

How to Celebrate and Get Involved in St Patrick’s Day 

St Patrick’s Day is one of the most widely celebrated events across the globe, bringing people together to enjoy Irish culture, food, and a lively atmosphere. 

Whether you have Irish heritage or just want to join in the fun, there are plenty of ways to celebrate at university without breaking the bank. Here’s everything you need to know about the holiday and how you can make the most of it as a student.

What is St Patrick’s Day?

St Patrick’s Day, celebrated annually on 17th March, honours St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. 

Originally a religious feast day, it has transformed into a global celebration of Irish culture, complete with parades, traditional music, and a lot of green attire. The holiday is especially known for its vibrant atmosphere, where people embrace all things Irish, from shamrocks to Guinness.

How to Get Involved in St Patrick’s Day at University

Attend a Local Parade

Many cities and towns host St Patrick’s Day parades, and university cities are no exception. These parades often feature Irish music, dance performances, and impressive floats. 

Checking with your student union or local council can help you find nearby events. These parades are usually free to attend and offer an incredible way to immerse yourself in the spirit of the day.

Host a Budget-Friendly Celebration

If you prefer celebrating with friends in a more relaxed setting, hosting a St Patrick’s Day gathering at your accommodation can be a great option. You don’t need to spend much – simply decorate your space with green streamers, balloons, and fairy lights. 

Asking everyone to wear green and bring along some Irish-inspired food or drinks can make the event more interactive and budget-friendly. 

Non-alcoholic options, like Shamrock Shakes made from vanilla ice cream, milk, and green food colouring, offer a fun and affordable way to get into the festive spirit.

Enjoy Traditional Irish Food

Another enjoyable way to celebrate is by trying traditional Irish food. Cooking up classic dishes such as Irish stew, soda bread, or colcannon can be a great way to bring some authentic flavours to your celebration. 

If cooking isn’t an option, checking out local pubs or restaurants that offer Irish-themed menus could be a fun alternative, and many places may offer student discounts or special promotions.

Join a Pub Crawl or Create Your Own

For those who enjoy a lively night out, many student groups and societies organise themed pub crawls for St Patrick’s Day. This can be a great way to explore local nightlife while celebrating the occasion. 

If you’re working with a tighter budget, setting up a DIY pub crawl in your accommodation, with different “pub” stations featuring themed games or drinks, can provide a fun and cost-effective alternative.

Embrace Irish Music and Film

If partying isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the celebration by engaging with Irish culture through music and film. 

Creating a playlist featuring artists such as The Cranberries, U2, or The Dubliners can bring an authentic Irish feel to your day. Watching Irish-themed films like The Commitments, Brooklyn, or Sing Street can also offer an enjoyable and immersive experience. 

Some universities even host Irish music nights or dance classes, so it’s worth checking whether your student union has any events planned.

Get Creative with DIY Decorations

For those who enjoy being creative, making DIY decorations and crafts can be an inexpensive way to celebrate. Simple projects such as shamrock garlands, leprechaun hats, or face painting kits can add an extra layer of fun to your celebrations. 

These activities can be great for decorating your student flat or just enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Support a Charity Event

Many universities also use St Patrick’s Day as an opportunity to give back to the community through charity fundraisers. Whether it’s a sponsored run, a bake sale, or a donation drive, getting involved in a good cause while celebrating can be a meaningful way to spend the day. 

Student societies or local charities may be organising events that align with the festive spirit, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for these opportunities.

Dress in Green and Show Your Spirit

One of the simplest and most effective ways to embrace the St Patrick’s Day spirit is by dressing in green. Whether it’s a simple green t-shirt, a leprechaun hat, or even some fun face paint, dressing up adds to the excitement and makes the day feel special. 

Many shops sell budget-friendly St Patrick’s Day accessories, but you can also get creative with items you already own to put together your outfit.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating St Patrick’s Day at university doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re heading to a local parade, hosting a party, trying Irish food, or just dressing up in green, there are plenty of ways to join in the fun while keeping things budget-friendly. 

Most importantly, it’s a great opportunity to connect with others, experience Irish culture, and make lasting memories. So, get your green on, embrace the festive spirit, and have a brilliant St Patrick’s Day!

Celebrating Ramadan While Studying at University

Ramadan is a sacred month observed by Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting from dawn until sunset. 

It is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion. The month lasts 29 or 30 days, depending on the lunar calendar, and concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival of feasting and community celebration.

For students at university, celebrating Ramadan can be both rewarding and challenging. Balancing academic responsibilities with fasting, prayers, and social commitments requires thoughtful planning. 

However, with the right approach, students can fully embrace the spirit of Ramadan while maintaining their studies and sharing the experience with others.

Balancing Fasting and Studies

One of the main aspects of Ramadan is fasting (sawm), which means abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from sunrise (Suhoor) to sunset (Iftar). 

While fasting can be a spiritual and fulfilling experience, it can also be demanding, especially when juggling lectures, assignments, and exams.

1. Planning Meals for Energy and Focus

Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, is crucial for sustaining energy throughout the day. Students should opt for slow-releasing foods like oats, whole grains, nuts, and protein-rich foods to maintain stamina. 

Hydration is also key – drinking plenty of water before fasting starts helps combat dehydration during the day.

For Iftar, the meal to break the fast, it’s best to avoid heavy or overly processed foods that can cause sluggishness. Instead, students should prioritise nutritious meals with proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables to aid digestion and provide sustained energy.

2. Managing Sleep and Study Schedules

Ramadan can alter daily routines, particularly sleep patterns, as night prayers (Taraweeh) and late-night meals become part of the schedule. To maintain productivity, students should create a flexible study plan that accommodates prayer times and rest. Power naps during the day can also help counteract any sleep loss.

Universities often provide prayer spaces and quiet study areas that can be useful during Ramadan. It’s also a good idea to inform professors or lecturers about observing Ramadan, especially if adjustments are needed for late-evening coursework or exams.

Creating a Sense of Community

Ramadan is not just about individual reflection – it’s also about togetherness and generosity. University students, whether Muslim or not, can participate in and appreciate the communal spirit of Ramadan.

1. Organising Group Iftars

One of the most rewarding parts of Ramadan is sharing Iftar with others. Many university Islamic societies and student groups host communal Iftars, offering a chance to break fast together and connect with fellow students. 

These gatherings are not exclusive to Muslims – friends from all backgrounds are welcome to join and learn about the traditions.

Students can also arrange potluck-style Iftars in their accommodation, with everyone contributing a dish. This can be a fantastic way to bond, try different cuisines, and create a home-away-from-home experience.

2. Engaging in Charity and Acts of Kindness

Charity (Zakat) is a key pillar of Islam, and Ramadan is a time when giving to others is highly encouraged. University students can participate by donating to food banks, volunteering for local causes, or supporting fundraising events. 

Even small acts of kindness, like helping a fellow student with coursework or checking in on a friend’s well-being, align with the spirit of Ramadan.

Inclusivity: How Non-Muslim Friends Can Participate

For non-Muslim students, Ramadan offers an opportunity to support friends and learn about another culture. Here are a few simple ways to show solidarity:

Join an Iftar: Accept invitations to break fast with friends and experience the traditions firsthand.

Be Mindful: Understand that fasting friends may be conserving energy during the day, so being considerate about meal plans or offering encouragement can go a long way.

Ask Questions: Ramadan is an excellent time to learn about Islam and the significance of fasting. Most Muslims are happy to share their experiences and educate others.

Celebrating Eid at University

After a month of fasting, the celebration of Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. It is a day of joy, prayer, food, and spending time with loved ones. 

While being away from family can make this time challenging for some students, universities often organise Eid events where students can celebrate together.

Students can also take part in simple traditions, such as dressing up for the occasion, preparing a special meal, or exchanging small gifts with friends. If university commitments allow, it’s also worth planning a short trip home to be with family for this significant celebration.

Final Thoughts: Making Ramadan a Meaningful Experience

Observing Ramadan while studying at university is entirely possible with a little planning and a supportive community. By balancing fasting with academic responsibilities, participating in group activities, and sharing the experience with others, students can make Ramadan a meaningful and enriching time. 

Whether fasting or simply supporting friends who are, the essence of Ramadan – reflection, kindness, and community- can be appreciated by all.

With a thoughtful approach, students can navigate university life while staying connected to their faith and traditions, making Ramadan a memorable and spiritually fulfilling experience.

Celebrating Chinese New Year: How Students Can Get Involved

Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year, is a vibrant festival celebrated by millions worldwide. 

Rich in traditions, it is a time for family, food, and festivities, welcoming the arrival of spring and symbolising new beginnings. For students, this celebration offers an exciting opportunity to explore a fascinating culture, immerse themselves in its traditions, and join the festivities in creative and meaningful ways.

In 2025, Chinese New Year falls on Wednesday 29 January, and the celebrations will last until the Lantern Festival on Wednesday 12 February. 

Each year is linked to one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, and 2025 marks the Year of the Snake, representing wisdom, creativity, and transformation. With its long history and global appeal, Chinese New Year offers much to learn and enjoy.

Understanding the Traditions of Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year is deeply rooted in history, dating back thousands of years. Traditionally, it celebrates the end of winter and the start of spring, serving as a time for families to reunite, pay respect to ancestors, and welcome good fortune for the year ahead. 

Across the 15-day celebration, customs include preparing elaborate meals, decorating homes with red and gold for good luck, and participating in parades filled with dragon and lion dances.

One of the key rituals is the exchange of hongbao – red envelopes containing money – which symbolise blessings and good fortune. Fireworks are another significant tradition, used to ward off evil spirits and welcome prosperity. 

Around the world, Chinese New Year is marked by dazzling parades, community festivals, and family gatherings, each adding its own local flavour to the celebrations.

How Students Can Join in the Celebrations

For students, Chinese New Year provides an enriching experience and a chance to connect with new traditions. Whether you are on campus, in your hometown, or part of a multicultural community, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

One of the easiest ways to participate is by attending local events. Many cities and universities organise Chinese New Year celebrations, including parades, cultural performances, and workshops. 

These events offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the festival and are an excellent way to meet people from diverse backgrounds. Keep an eye out for workshops on calligraphy, paper cutting, or traditional cooking, which can provide hands-on experience with Chinese arts and crafts.

If you prefer something more personal, consider hosting your own celebration with friends. You can transform your living space with red lanterns, paper decorations, and festive banners that symbolise luck and prosperity. 

Prepare a Chinese-inspired meal, featuring traditional dishes such as dumplings, spring rolls, or noodles, which symbolise wealth, happiness, and longevity. For a fun and engaging twist, learn how to fold dumplings together or organise a trivia game about Chinese New Year traditions.

Exploring the Chinese zodiac is another exciting way to deepen your understanding of the festival. Since 2025 is the Year of the Snake, it’s an opportunity to learn about the traits associated with this zodiac animal, including intelligence and adaptability. 

Take the time to discover your own zodiac sign and share its characteristics with friends – it’s a great icebreaker and a chance to exchange cultural insights.

Embracing Creativity and Sharing Good Fortune

Chinese New Year also encourages creativity and generosity, values that resonate universally. 

You can try your hand at traditional crafts, such as calligraphy or lantern-making, to create festive decorations or personalised gifts. Paper cutting, with its intricate designs, is another beautiful way to honour the festival and add a festive touch to your surroundings.

Furthermore, sharing good fortune is a key part of the celebration, and you can embrace this tradition by giving red envelopes with small symbolic amounts of money or tokens of appreciation to your friends. 

Alternatively, consider donating to a local charity or volunteering at a community event. The act of giving, no matter how small, reflects the spirit of the festival and fosters a sense of connection and goodwill.

Making the Celebration Meaningful

For students, celebrating Chinese New Year is not just about the festivities – it’s an opportunity to learn about and respect cultural diversity. 

Take the time to explore the history behind the traditions and their significance. Engaging with classmates or community members from Chinese or East Asian backgrounds can provide valuable insights and deepen your appreciation of the festival.

If you’re on a budget, don’t worry – celebrating Chinese New Year doesn’t have to be expensive. Decorations, snacks, and even pre-made dumplings are widely available and affordable. 

You can also share your experience on social media, using hashtags like #ChineseNewYear or #YearOfTheSnake, to join a global conversation and connect with others celebrating around the world.

Welcoming the Year of the Snake

Chinese New Year is a time of joy, renewal, and community, making it the perfect occasion for students to come together and celebrate. 

Whether you attend a parade, host a themed dinner, or simply learn about the traditions, you can immerse yourself in the rich culture and make meaningful connections. The Year of the Snake invites us to embrace wisdom and transformation – qualities that resonate with students embarking on their own journeys of growth and discovery. 

So, gather your friends, dive into the festivities, and welcome the Lunar New Year with open arms and an adventurous spirit!