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!