How do you usually celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? Admitting that you buy cheap plastic partyware is the first step toward going green this March 17. Whether you like to have a laid back party at home or an all out bash traveling from bar to bar, there are steps you can take to add more green to your Irish jig.
- Carpool with your friends and family if you want to go bar hopping. Stay with your local bars or visit a city that isn’t too far away that has blocks of restaurants, pubs and maybe even a cool parade. Then you can walk to each one and reduce your carbon footprint.
- Resist the temptation to buy partware that you’re never going to use again. If you’re hosting a dinner and want to accessories for your St. Patty’s Day tablescape, choose plates, flatware, candles, etc. that can be reused next year. Or incorporate the green theme in your food by loading up vegetables and making colorful cupcakes or Jell-O for dessert.
- Add green to your wardrobe by dressing up clothing you already own. For example, emphasize whatever green fashion you have. You can wear all black and show off those emerald shoes you rarely wear. Or you can add a green scarf, belt or hat to your outfit. Forego the beads and “Kiss Me I’m Irish” buttons unless you have ones saved from last year.
- Be the designated driver so you can think green for your group. Plans can change in an instant, so someone has to be in control of the situation. One way to do this is to keep everyone together so no one has to take a taxi back to the hotel or pub.
- Purchase organic Irish ale. Cannog Ales or Finnians have organic options, or you can choose among the organic varieties that your store or local bar carry. Not only will you get your buzz on, but you will also support organic brewing.
It might be a fun challenge for you and your friends to go green all day and night long on St. Patrick’s Day. Do you think you can do it?
Marina Hanes has a B.A. in Professional Writing and Editing from Youngstown State University. She is a vegetarian and is passionate about environmental issues and animal rights.
