Irish American Day, March 14th

Irish American Day

If you have even a little bit of Irish in you, you have a lot in common with 34.5 million Americans, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. But, if you aren't Irish, don't feel left out, it's only three days until St. Patrick's Day, the day that everyone is Irish.

To learn more about why we celebrate St. Patrick's Day, check out the History Channel's The History of St. Patrick's Day. If after reading/watching all that Irishness, you become despondent and worried that the American version is so commercialized and a far cry from it's religious and historical beginnings in Ireland that we as a nation are all doomed to live soulless existences, then try some Irish soul food... aka potatoes. Check out these authentic Irish recipes, and stay at home and cook and invite all your friends over for an Irish feast. Your soul will be filled to the brim with friendship.

But, you really will miss a little bit of the fun if you aren't a little commercial. After all, we Americans were the ones who put the pinch in the traditions, so, put on a "Kiss Me I'm Irish" or "Erin Go Bragh" button, and go have some fun! (Please wear one for me, I seem to have lost my special blinking one, as well as my Erin Go Bragh wall hangings.) Sad!

If cooking Irish food doesn't sound too appealing, try a parade. There will be plenty around. Even Salt Lake City has one, and on the right day too! It was a fun parade last year, it was cold, and a little odd with all the Scottish bagpipe bands participating, but lots of fun. I highly recommend it.

What ever you do, remember today is the prep day for the real thing, so you can have a half a week of Irish fun!

Happy, Happy St. Patrick's Day!