The coronavirus pandemic has officially hit the one-year mark, and we’re still looking for safe ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! Although this year still looks different, there are many ways to celebrate without putting yourself and others at risk. As we start to get a little stir crazy, we think about ways we can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day to feel more “normal.”

Irish food is hearty and comforting. Ireland is also known for its prolific writers and movie makers. During these times, let’s keep it Irish!

Craft with the kids.

With unlimited St. Patrick’s Day crafts, this holiday is always fun for the kids! Fun crafts allow kids to develop their creativity while expressing their feelings. It fosters mental growth in kids by providing new opportunities for trying out new ideas, new ways of thinking and problem-solving. If you are looking for fun arts and crafts ideas, check out some of these activities.

• Shamrock Toilet Paper Roll Stamp
• Shamrock Wand
• Fingerprint Shamrock
• St. Patrick’s Day Cootie Catcher
• Handprint Leprechaun

Have an at-home parade!

If you’re really looking to get in the spirit with your kids, why not set up a little parade? Celebrate by wearing green, eating green foods while having a little at-home parade in the living room! Grab some green beads from your local party store, throw on your green outfits and parade around the living room while listening to Irish music!

Learn an Irish dance.

Turn on some Irish music and introduce your kids or friends to a new form of dance! There are many step-by-step videos of Irish dancing on the internet. Try this one that teaches you the Irish jig!

Watch an Irish movie.

There are many Irish movies that have become favorites. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an Irish movie at home. Here are a few favorites:

• “P.S. I Love You”
• “Darby O’Gill and the Little People”
• “My Left Foot”
• “The Snapper”
• “Once”
• “Frank”

Create a delicious Irish meal at home.

Whip up a healthy hearty green snack while at home this St. Patrick’s Day! We have a few delicious snack ideas that you can make right at home!

• Avocado Hummus
• Matcha Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Easy Kale Chips

Registered Dietitan Molly Kimball discusses some of the health benefits of the vegetables including cabbage, potatoes and carrots that you might have caught previously at a St. Patrick’s Day parade. Read the recipe, here.

Not a fan of cooking? Support local restaurants and bars that taken a huge hit by ordering take-out and curbside delivery!

Read a classic Irish book.

While we’re still on lockdown, focus on resting up and read a good book! Taking a moment to slow down and relax has many health benefits! Click here to view a few Irish classics.