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The Do's and Don'ts of St. Patrick's Day
March 15, 2012
17th March, St Patrick's Day, St Paddy's Day...whatever you call it, it's a national holiday in Ireland and the most celebrated saints day in the world. Whether you're in Dublin, London, Lisbon or Swaziland you'll find someone celebrating this iconic day. Here's some Do's and Don'ts from the ROCKTAILS team, so you can make the absolute most of the day.
Do
1. Hang out with the Irish. These people can normally be found in their country of origin, an Irish pub anywhere in the world (click here if you need to find one), or at a St Patrick’s Day Parade but only if the weather’s nice.
2. Understand the vocabulary. Some standard words and phrases are below, but you might want to do more detailed research.
Craic (pronounced crack) – banter, fun
Black – crowed, very busy e.g. the pub was black
Wrecked - tired
Black Stuff – Guinness
Mineral – Soft drink
Bucketing – raining very heavy
Cat – awful, very bad, no good
Quare – very, really e.g. it was quare craic
Dander – walk slowly
Shift – kiss
Slainte – Cheers (literal translation = health)
3. Get there early. Whether you’re going to watch a Parade or the pub, most places will get busy early.
4. Pace yourself. If you’re drinking during the day, grab a glass of water between drinks.
5. Eat. You’ll want to keep your energy up so you can celebrate well into the night. Carbs are best.
6. Wear green. If it’s not the most attractive thing in your wardrobe, try to funk it up a bit, here's some inspiration from the stars - how to wear green. If you really can't find anything, some pubs will give out free hats/glasses/t-shirts.
7. Try to Irish dance. Most Irish people can’t, so it’s fine to look like a fool.
Don’t
1. Go out if you’re in a bad mood. Few will be accepting of anyone who ‘kills the craic’.
2. Imitate the Irish accent. You’re probably not very good at it, and you will certainly sound like a fool.
3. Drink green beer. It’s clearly got some shocking food colouring, as green beer isn’t naturally occurring. Green cocktails on the other hand, are acceptable.
4. Tell everyone about your mother’s second cousin’s sister or other long lost relative being Irish, no-one cares.
by Rocktails.co.uk
