The history of St. Patty’s day reaches all the way back to 1683 in honor of the Patron Saint of Ireland. Over the past few centuries the holiday has changed and developed into what we know it as today. Due to this, a collection of social norms has also since been associated with May 17.

The Don’ts

Do not order an irish car bomb

Instead, order the same drink but by using its less controversial name the “Dublin Drop.” The Dublin Drop is a bomb style shot and consists of a mix of Irish cream and Irish whiskey which is then added to Irish stout. The name “Irish car Bomb” stems from St. Patrick’s Day 1976 by Charles Burke Cronin Oat while he worked at Wilson’s Saloon in Connecticut. The controversy is due to the fact that the name references the car bombings that inflicted the Irish people during The Troubles from the late 60s to the late 90s.

Avoid mixing up Irish and Scottish traditions

While the accents may sound similar, there are many differences between the Scottish and the Irish. Wearing Scottish kilts may have gotten mixed into the celebrations of St. Patty’s day but that does not mean the two cultures are one and the same. Although both are celtic nations, there are still a few mix ups when it comes to the Irish holiday of St. Patty’s day.

Avoid becoming the “drunken irish stereotype”

Partying at the local Whitewater bars can be a great way to socialize and help the economy while also celebrating St. Patty’s Day. However, with great fun comes great responsibility. Vandalism, drunk driving and other reckless activities are important to avoid in order to make 2023 St. Patty’s Day one of the best.

The Do’s

Wear green or get a pinch!

It was once believed that wearing green on St. Patty’s day made you invisible to the naked eye of a leprechaun. If a leprechaun saw you out and about on St. Patty’s day without a lick of forest, lime or emerald on your person that meant you would be receiving a good ol’ pinch. While leprechauns are not a common sighting in Whitewater it may be better safe than sorry.

Join St. Patty’s Day community events

Whitewater as well as surrounding towns have a variety of St. Patty’s Day events to look forward to. Parades, parties and even celebrations for children are an easy way to celebrate all day with friends or loved ones.  

Try traditional irish dishes

St. Patty’s Day makes the perfect excuse to try all the delicious traditional Irish dishes and desserts. Some commonly known plates are corned beef and cabbage as well as shepards pie. Some less known foods from the Irish palate include fish pie and boxty, a.k.a Irish potato cakes. There are also some tasty treats that one can bake such as apple cake and soda bread.