Family Shenanigans for St. Patrick’s Day

Everyone is Irish on March 17. Whether you’re rich in Irish heritage or just an annual participant in one of the most beloved early springtime celebrations, St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect reason for mid-week adult libations and traditional Irish fare. For those who plan to celebrate with their lucky little leprechauns, we’ve left no shamrock unturned in our hunt to make the most of St. Patrick’s Day for the entire clan. Check out our guide to putting an Irish twist on food, crafts, decor and activities.

Food

Quintessential to every St. Patrick’s Day feast is the iconic Corned Beef and Cabbage. This “magically delicious” brisket — with cabbage and red potatoes — is easy to prepare in the crockpot. Pair it with a thick slice (or two) of Basil Beer Bread to soak up all the flavorful juices from the slow-cooked beef. For another savory Irish staple, try a Shepherd’s Pie of minced meat topped with a golden layer of mashed potatoes. This Shepherd’s Pie recipe is as easy as, well…. pie, and can be put together in less than 30 minutes. We also love this grown-up (and arguably more traditional) recipe that calls for ground lamb.

Sweets

A celebration wouldn’t be complete without cake, which is why we love this Chocolate Stout Cake made with Guinness and topped with chocolate ganache. Since the alcohol bakes out, you’ll be left with the smooth flavor, and a dessert that’s safe for the whole family. For an alternative to cake, these Chocolate Covered Four Leaf Clover Shortbread Cookies are sure to please and add a touch more green to your Irish-inspired feast.

Want something light and healthy to nosh during your celebration, these All Green Fruit Skewers are sweet and delightfully festive.

Decor

A memorable celebration always begins with decorations. Infuse pops of green throughout your home; start with this printable banner. Download the template and follow the step-by-step instructions. Jute and green ribbon give the banner a homemade feel.

Place potted shamrocks throughout your home. Shamrocks make great houseplants and are easy to grow and care for. The shamrock plant makes a wonderful centerpiece. Want something more neutral and adaptable to climate — check out this potted succulent trio.

For an additional playful and inexpensive centerpiece, fill hurricanes with green split peas to hold votives in place.

Activities

Play a familiar card game, such as poker and replace any chips or money with chocolate coins as the game’s currency.

If card games aren’t favorable to the littlest leprechauns, hide chocolate coins throughout your home for them to find. (Think: Easter egg hunt meets St. Patrick’s Day). We also love the idea of a scavenger hunt for a Pot O’ Gold full of treats at the end.

Dye carnations with the kiddos. Simply mix green food coloring with water in a vase until a rich, vibrant shade of green is achieved. Take any number of white carnations, cut their stems under cool, running water, then place them in the vase or painted green Mason jar. Your family will be tickled by the overnight leprechaun magic that changes the petals from white to green.

Adorn each member of the family with a homemade St. Patrick’s Day pin or boutonnière, then head to a local parade or festival to show off your green attire.