Saint Patrick’s Breastplate: A rediscovered masterpiece of Celtic
WELLSVILLE — Get out your green vests, t-shirts, hats, and more and get ready to celebrate the 4th Annual Shortest Saint Patrick’s Day Parade with the luck of the Irish on Friday the 13th.
That parade will take place at 5 p.m. between Madison and Fassett streets on Main Street. Specifically, the parade will take place over the 12-foot distance between From the Hart Irish store and the Wellsville Brewery.
The crowd will extend far beyond the parade route.
At previous events,
parade watchers have enjoyed celebrating with open containers and Irish foods. At the request of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, who sponsor the parade, the village board lifted the open container law from 4 to 7 p.m. on parade day. Several restaurants across from the parade route and beyond will offer such Irish favorites as corned beef and cabbage and soda bread. The raucous event got its start four years ago when Sister Alice Roach led off the first event as the parade’s grand marshal. The following year Rosie O’Grady was parade marshal and, last year,
ANDOVER — “The spells of women, smiths, and wizards” were listed among the many dangers to body and soul in the famous Irish prayer called Saint Patrick’s Breastplate.
Andover jeweler
Stephen Walker is honoring Saint Patrick with a recently rediscovered treasure of Celtic art.
Fine art prints by a nearly forgotten Irish artist, Michael O’Connor, will be on exhibit and for sale at two local parades in Wellsville (this Friday) and Hornell (on Saturday).
O’Connor created one of his best works in 1961, penning the words of Saint Patrick, decorat-
AOH President Mike McCullough was marshal.
This year, John and Wanda Dean will be the parade marshals.
The original idea for the Shortest Saint Patrick’s Day parade came from Brian Cannon, who saw similar parades on visits to Ireland. Aware of the Irish influence in the county, he decided to celebrate that heritage.
Canal workers, mostly Irish laborers escaping the potato famine in the mid-1800s, flooded into the county prior to the Civil War to build the Genesee Barge Canal.
ing the page with beautiful Celtic style decoration and symbolism. Walker is collaboration with Stephen Rynne in Ireland who rediscovered this lost
artwork. Rynne and Walker are also working together to put present an international conference of Celtic artists this summer. Walker suggested publishing a
fine art edition of The Breastplate as a way to revive the memory of this great artist and using the proceeds from sales as a fundraiser for the upcoming International Day of Celtic Art Conference in Ireland in June 2026.
Copies of the Breastplate print will be available at the Wellsville World’s Shortest Saint Patrick’s Day Parade at 4:45 p.m. Friday on Main Street and at the Hornell Saint Patrick’s Day Parade on Main Street at 11 a.m. Saturday. It may also be ordered online from
Photos provided
Stephen Walker showing off a print of Saint Patrick’s Breastplate illuminated by Irish Artist Michael O’Connor.
Detail from Saint Patrick’s Breastplate illuminated by Irish Artist Michael O’Connor.
Saint Patrick’s Breastplate continued
Allegany County Area Foundation grant supports HomeCare & Hospice nurses
BELMONT — HomeCare & Hospice recently received a $1,300 grant from the Allegany County Area Foundation to help purchase two tablets that will assist hospice nurses in delivering more connected, responsive care to patients in their homes.
The tablets will allow nurses to access patient records, communicate with physicians and colleagues and document care in real time while visiting patients throughout Allegany County. This technology upgrade aims to strengthen care coordination and help ensure timely support during some of life’s most challenging moments.
“We are grateful to the Allegany County
prove the quality of life for residents throughout Allegany County. Since its founding in 1983, the foundation has supported educational, social, cultural, and civic initiatives across the region.
and support available to patients and families.”
and compassionate care for the individuals and families we serve.”
Hospice services through HomeCare & Hospice focus on comfort, dignity and support for patients facing serious illness, while also providing guidance and resources for their loved ones.
The technology will be integrated alongside the organization’s upcoming electronic health record training, ensuring the devices are fully compatible with the system nurses will use in the field.
Area Foundation for supporting this important step forward in how we care for patients,” said Melissa Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of HomeCare & Hospice. “These tablets will help our nurses stay connected while providing care in patients’ homes, allowing them to quickly access information and collaborate with our care team. Ultimately, this means more responsive
The Allegany County Area Foundation focuses its grantmaking on projects that im-
“The Allegany County Area Foundation is proud to support organizations that make a meaningful difference in our community,” said Bruce Campbell, Executive Director of the foundation. “HomeCare & Hospice provides compassionate care to residents across the county, and we are pleased to help equip their nurses with tools that strengthen the care
For more information about the Allegany County Area Foundation, call (585) 296-5616 or email director@ acafny.org. For more information about services provided by HomeCare & Hospice, call (716) 372-2106, visit homecare-hospice. org or email snegron@ homecare-hospice.org.
Cuba-Rushford Middle/High School has announced Joseph Wojciechowski as the valedictorian for the Class of 2026, while Peyton Joy has been named salutatorian. Cuba-Rushford officials extend a heartfelt congratulations on this impressive achievement that reflects their dedication and hard work. Both students have demonstrated remarkable perseverance and commitment to excellence. Wojciechowski is shown with his parents, Adam and Libby Wojciechowski. Joy is shown with his mother, Megan Torpey.
Photo provided
Allegany County Area Foundation Board President Jon Morris (left) presents Meme Yanetsko, director of advancement for HomeCare & Hospice, with a ceremonial check and one of two tablets funded through a foundation grant.
Joseph Wojciechowski (center)
Peyton Joy (left)
BY KELLEN M. QUIGLEY
dining & Entertainment
CUBA — For over 15 years, students from Cuba-Rushford Central School have been highlighting the unique wildlife and cultures they’ve seen on educational hunting trips across the country and the globe.
This spring, the 15th season of “CRCS Outdoors” will air with 13 brand new episodes showcasing the adventures the group got up to during the past year. But even as this season’s episodes are airing, filming for next year is
already underway. The CRCS Outdoors group and its advisor, retired science and technology teacher Scott Jordan, are inviting the public to join them on their next adventure to Peru later this year.
“We’re trying to give people the opportunity of going to Machu Picchu — one of the seven wonders of the world — and the Nasca Lines,” Jordan told the Times Herald. “Our superintendent is from there, so every aspect of planning was run by him. We always look at the big picture.”
Some of the featured sites from previous trips include the Pyramids of Giza, the Parthenon, the Coliseum, Stone Henge and Loch Ness. Jordan said he hopes they can get to all seven continents eventually.
For the Peru trip, the hope is to bring 18 to 20 people total, and the group has about seven to nine spots available open to the public, not only Cuba-Rushford students and parents, Jordan said. CRCS Outdoors is working with TSA Tours on this trip and brochures are available, but anyone interested can contact Jordan directly for more information.
“Machu Picchu and the Nasca Lines are the main focus, including historical places, as well as going to see penguins and seals,” he said.
“Most people have not been there but do know about Mach Picchu, so I just try to make things happen.”
Spots still open for next ‘CRCS Outdoors’ adventure to Peru
The eight-day trip includes time spent in Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Paracas, featuring flights, motor-coach transport and a round-trip train ride. Participants will stay in centrally located fourstar hotels, take guided tours with professional English-speaking guides and more.
“It’s such a great opportunity that I will not be doing again any time soon,” Jordan said. “So much of the planet to explore.”
THE NEW SEASON of “CRCS Outdoors” will be shown on the Pursuit Channel starting in April, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. and Mondays at 6:30 a.m., as well as a third random airing during the week, Jordan said.
Photo provided
“CRCS Outdoors” advsior Scott Jordan (right) with a red stag, the quarry from a trip to New Zealand in 2025.
Allegany County legislators Havey, Whitney appointed to NYSAC Public Safety Standing Committee
BELMONT — Al-
legany County Legislators Steven Havey (District IV, Wellsville) and Rick Whitney (District III, Bolivar) have been appointed to serve
on the Public Safety Sanding Committee of the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC).
Havey currently serves as the chairman
5685 Tuckers Corners Road Belmont, NY 14813
(585) 268-8077
www.precisionautochoice.com Monday–Friday 8am–5pm
of the county’s Public Safety Committee, while Whitney serves as the vice chairman. Both legislators bring extensive experience and a strong commitment to public initiatives at the county level to their new statewide roles.
“I am pleased to be appointed to NYSAC’s Public Safety Standing Committee,” Havey said. “I look forward to collaborating with committee members and ensuring that the perspectives of rural communities like ours
are represented in statewide discussions.”
Whitney added, “I am honored to serve on this committee. This appointment provides an important opportunity to advocate for the unique public safety challenges facing rural counties and to help shape policies that directly impact our residents.”
Allegany County Board Chairman W. Brooke Harris applauded the legislators for their leadership with the association and their commitment to Allegany County.
“NYSAC’s standing committees are the backbone of the Association’s advocacy efforts,” Harris said. “We are proud to see Legislators Havey and Whitney contributing their leadership and expertise on behalf of Allegany County.”
represents all 62 counties in the state and works to foster excellence in county government while uniting the voice of New
Michael O’Connor, 1913-1969, was arguably Ireland’s most accomplished Celtic artist and calligrapher in his day. Why isn’t he famous? The simple answer is that this humble man
never sought fame. O’Connor did create a number of pieces as diplomatic gifts, commissioned by Irish President Eamon de Valera, that were presented to various high-level dignitaries including President John F. Kennedy and Popes Pius XII and John XXIII.
county leaders.
The Kerry Writers Museum in Listowel, County Kerry will host the third in the series conferences for Celtic artists that was begun in Andover in 2019.
From June 11 to 14, lectures, presentations, art exhibits and teaching workshops will bring together artists and experts from as far as Australia, Hawaii, Scotland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Brittany and North America. To enquire about the conference or purchase of the Breastplate art prints call Walker’s Celtic Jewelry at (607) 4788567 or email service@ walkermetalsmiths.com.
➡Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
As farmers, many of the Irish immigrants decided to stay in the area, building the farming community and helping to make Allegany County the home of the “cheese capital of the world” — Cuba. Cannon hoped the event would also boost local businesses and put an end to the winter blues. Since its beginning, participation in the 12foot parade has grown each year. Along with fire trucks and emergency vehicles, marchers
have included local dance companies, the Shenanigan Sisters, high school sports teams, antique cars and local groups.
Wellsville’s Shortest Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, while not official, is 86 feet shorter than the parade in Hot Springs, Ark., which is documented as the shortest parade celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Cannon said, rather than spending money to document the parade, the AOH would rather
spend its funds helping local food pantries and providing student scholarships.
The Wellsville parade is sponsored by the AOH, an organization that has its roots in Ireland and started in the American colonies in the late 1700s to protect and support Catholics. Later this spring, the
local order will host its annual Road Bowling Tournament in Andover, yet another nod to the area’s Irish roots, while the annual car show, the largest in the area, will take place in September. For anyone wanting to take part in the parade, email aoh.cannon@ gmail.com.
York’s
home improvement
Tips to take care of wood flooring
inevitable, especially in homes where young children live. Though spills might not be preventable, the damage they can cause can be avoided with a prompt response. Cleaning spills immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth
soak up the spilled liquids. The NWFA notes that mopping wood floors with
children, who may routinely track dirt in from outside or spill food and drinks with greater frequency than adults. But even wood flooring in homes without pets and children requires consistent maintenance. Homeowners who want to protect their wood floors and ensure they maintain their aesthetic appeal for the long haul can consider the following maintenance tips, courtesy of the National Wood Flooring Association.
Natural wood flooring is a stunning feature of millions of homes. Wood floors are appreciated for their durability and aesthetic appeal, each of which is bolstered when floors are properly maintained. A host of variables can affect how long wood flooring lasts and how its appearance holds up over time. Wood flooring in homes with pets that roam around the house, such as cats and dogs, may require more frequent maintenance than those without pets. The same goes for homes with
• Sweep, dust or mop each day. The NWFA recommends daily maintenance to remove dust and dirt that accumulates each day. Such cleaning can prevent damage that can compromise the aesthetic appeal of the floors and potentially affect their longevity.
• Clean spills immediately. Spills are
Jordan said the new season will feature local turkey and deer hunting as well
mop will damage the finish and the wood over long periods of time. If allowed to soak into the floor, spilled liquid can contribute to warping, swelling and staining. Each of those issues can be costly to address, but a quick and immediate cleanup can prevent all three from happening.
• Vacuum once per week on the bare floor setting. Utilizing a vacuum is less taxing on wood floors than sweeping
so long as the vacuum is on the bare floor setting. Sweeping is best avoided to prevent small particles from being dragged across the floor, which gradually wears down the finish and ultimately contributes to a dull look. Vacuuming vertically lifts the debris off the floor, ensuring nothing is dragged along the surface of the floor. If you’re using a manual vacuum instead of a robotic vacuum, vacuum with the grain to reduce the risk of damage.
• Apply wood flooring cleaner once per month. If your wood floors are newly installed, ask your installer to recommend a cleaner specifically designed for the finish on your floor. If your floors are not new, contact a flooring professional for a recommendation. Wood flooring cleaners specific to a given floor’s finish are important because these products are specialized and formulated with both cleaning and protection of the floor itself in mind.
The right wood floor cleaner won’t lead to dull-looking floors nor damage the finish.
• Recoat floors if they start to look dull. The NWFA notes that recoating with wood floor finish every three to five years can renew the appearance of natural wood flooring that might be starting to look a little dull.
Well-maintained wood floors add much to a home’s interiors. Some simple maintenance can ensure wood floors remain durable and aesthetically appealing for decades.
All 13 episodes can be seen on the Pursuit Channel — Dish 393 or Direct 604 — as well as the app Pursuit Up. The backlog from previous seasons can be found on the YouTube page “CRCS Outdoors.”
“Sometimes it
as trips to New Zealand for red stag and fallow deer, Cabo San Lucas for marlin, Lake Erie walleye and lake trout, fossil hunting in Western states like Utah, Wyoming and Colorado, bear hunting in Canada and youth turkey hunts in Idaho and Pennsylvania.
changes their world,” he said of the students’ experiences on the adventures. “Bucket lists should start when you are young enough to be excited about them.”
Jordan expressed gratitude to all of the youth mentors who help make these trips happen, mentioning Dan Taylor, Mark In-
gram and Aaron Jahnke, who volunteer each year to take kids in the outdoors. He said they now have episodes for the older folks, too — “Geriatrics Outdoors.”
“The school and the community have always made our efforts worthwhile and always so supportive,” he added. “We wouldn’t
be anywhere without them.”
With student editors putting each episode together, Jordan said they are producing a national television show in the back of a public classroom — no million-dollar budgets or corporations — and he’s hopeful that viewers tune in to see how
the group tries to make a difference.
“The trips and programs we do are open to anyone, anywhere, not just (Cuba-Rushford),” he said. For more information about “CRCS Outdoors” or to take part in one of the adventures, contact Jordan at sjordan@mycrcs.org.
Sempolinski: Upstate needs more funding for local roads, bridges
Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski is calling out Gov. Kathy Hochul for increasing aid for New York City roads and bridges while keeping funding for Upstate roads and bridges flat.
The assemblyman, R-Canisteo, said that in her executive budget, Hochul increased aid for the New York City Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) by $340 million, but she included no increase in funding for Upstate
road and bridge maintenance. “This is a matter of fairness and equity,”
Sempolinski said in a press release. “The governor kept transportation aid for Upstate the same as last year while increasing aid to the MTA.”
Joint Senate-Assembly hearings on the governor’s proposed $260 billion budget concluded last week. Hochul and the Legislature’s Democrat majorities are set to begin final budget negotiations throughout
March, with the deadline for approving a new state budget technically being April 1.
“Upstate New York deserves its fair share,” Sempolinski added. “I’m calling on Gov. Hochul to add $250 million to the budget to make sure our local and county highway crews have the resources they need to maintain our roads and bridges.”
Sempolinski met March 2 with highway superintendents from across his 148th District to talk about the need
health & Wellness
for additional state support for road maintenance in Allegany, Cattaraugus and Steuben counties.
“The bottom line is that every dollar invested in local roads by Albany is a dollar saved by local taxpayers,” he said.
In February, Sempolinski joined nearly 70 Republicans in the state Assembly and Senate in sending a letter to the governor insisting that more funding is essential to help offset rising construction costs, stabilize transportation and ensure critical infrastructure projects can move forward.
The letter noted that the executive budget proposed no increases to local road, bridge and culvert funding for the fourth year of the fiveyear state Department of Transportation capital plan.
The GOP lawmakers, including Sen. George Borrello of Chautauqua County and Sen. Tom O’Mara of Chemung County, asked the governor:
• To increase the CHIPS base aid level funding by $250
million to a total of $898.1 million, allowing municipalities to recoup some of the real funding value lost to inflation since 2022.
• To consolidate five of the state’s local road assistance programs into two programs, which would reduce the administrative burden and recordkeeping costs at the state and local levels. The program uses
are almost identical for CHIPS, “Extreme Winter Recovery” (EWR), and “State Touring Roads” (STR), as are the guidelines for the “Operation Pave Our Potholes” (POP) and PAVE-NY programs.
• To increase the CHIPS bidding threshold from $350,000 to $1 million
7 signs of spring allergies
Few things are more deflating than finally venturing outdoors after a long winter of cabin fever, only to find that blooming trees and flowers start wreaking havoc with your personal health.
Spring allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to indoor or outdoor allergens, such as tree and grass pollen, mold and dust. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, approximately 25.7 percent of adults and 18.9 percent of children in the United States suffer from seasonal allergies. Allergic
rhinitis accounts for an estimated $16 billion in annual health care costs and is a leading cause of reduced productivity while at work.
Identifying the symptoms of allergies is key to distinguishing them from a cold or another infection and to ensuring fast relief. Spring allergies typically peak from March to May and may even continue into July. Physicians will look for specific physical markers to confirm allergies.
1. Sneezing: Sneezing can occur in rapid-fire patterns, known as paroxysmal sneezing, espe-
cially after spending time outdoors. These intense episodes can be tied to allergies or be symptomatic of another condition, says the National Institutes of Health.
2. Itchy, watery eyes: Allergic conjunctivitis is the medical term for this condition, which is a hallmark of spring allergies. Eyes will appear red, feel gritty or drip clear fluid.
3. Nasal congestion/ runny nose: A thin, clear discharge typically is a sign of allergies, whereas any mucus that is thick, yellow or green could indicate an infection. Constant upward rubbing of the nose from allergies (called the allergic salute) often causes a permanent transverse nasal crease at the junction of the nose tip and the bridge, says Healthline.
4. Itchy throat and ears: Pollen may
cause a scratchy or tingly sensation in the throat and in the ear canals. Medical professionals warn that chronic inflammation from allergies is a primary risk factor for secondary bacterial infections that can occur in the sinuses and ears. Eustachian tube dysfunction occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum because the eustachian tubes become blocked or don’t open properly to let fluid drain to the nose and throat, says the Cleveland Clinic. Pressure imbalances, muffled hearing, popping sounds, and even pain can occur.
5. “Allergic shiners”: Nasal congestion can cause swelling and increased blood vessels to the small veins in the infraorbital area, causing dark, bluish circles under the eyes called periorbital hyperpigmentation, says the Center for Orofacial
Myology. This makes allergy sufferers appear as though they have two black eyes.
6. Cough: Post-nasal drip occurs when mucus drips down the back of the throat from the nose. This can cause a persistent, dry cough that’s often worse at night. Post-nasal drip also may result in a sore throat and a “cobblestone” appearance in the back of the throat that’s visible during a medical exam.
7. Fatigue: Insufficient rest due to allergy-related discomfort can cause those with spring allergies to feel fatigued. The constant immune system response to allergies also can lead to daytime tiredness and lack of focus. Allergic rhinitis is a problem for millions of people each spring. A combination of avoiding triggers and using allergy medications can help calm any symptoms that crop up.
Photo provided
Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski (far right) attends a press conference Monday at the Big Flats Town Garage as state lawmakers and municipal and county officials called for increased funding for roads and bridges. State Sen. Tom O’Mara of Big Flats is speaking at the podium.
Churches in Allegany County to host energy savings workshops
FRIENDSHIP —
Homeowners and renters will be able to obtain a free kit of energy savings small equipment and supplies and information on up to $10,000 in weatherization grants, depending on incomes, during workshops hosted next week by the What God is Doing in Friendship ny alliance of participating churches.
— or eliminate the threshold altogether — to give municipalities more flexibility to pursue the most cost-effective option to bid out or perform in-house projects.
87% OF NYS ROADS ARE MUNICIPAL OR COUNTY
GOP lawmakers
point out the vast majority of the state’s road system is owned by 1,600 local governments and consists of nearly 100,000 centerline miles of roadways and 8,600 highway bridges.
“In our view, the governor’s proposal fails to recognize or understand the significant impact inflation is having on local highway departments,” the lawmakers stated
The Community of Care sessions will occur from 10 to 11 a.m., and repeated from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, at the First United Methodist Church, 21 W. Main St., Friendship. Required pre-registration for the sessions, to obtain the one per household free kits, is available by forwarding names of attendees,
in their letter. “Local governments, for the foreseeable future, will continue to struggle to address budgetary demands in the face of the state-imposed property tax cap, rising pension, health care and highway construction costs, and unfunded state mandates, among other burdens.”
Sempolinski said local roads make up 87% of New York’s roadways, which town and county highway departments are responsible for maintaining.
Allegany County DPW maintains about 345 miles of roadway with attendant bridges and culverts — while that does not include village and town roadways.
community of residence, email address and telephone number, including area code, to WhatGodisDoing@outlook. com or (585) 664-9989. Both adults and teens are welcome to attend the workshops. Cornell Cooperative Extension will be presenting the information to help attendees understand their energy bills, obtain informa-
Sempolinski cited estimates that every $1 invested in the CHIPS program to support local road, bridge and culvert maintenance can save up to $6 to $14 in long-term rehabilitation costs and help ease the burden on local property taxpayers.
A 2023 study of local highway and bridge needs by the New York State Association of Town Superintendents of Highways (NYSAOTSOH) found that municipalities would need an additional $32 billion over 15 years to restore locally-owned roads through repaving and improvements, or $2.1 billion annually. In 2025, that need was updated to $2.69 billion a year, or $40.35
tion on money savings opportunities, including the grants, and weatherization ideas.
The free energy kits include an advanced power strip with surge protection, two LED light bulbs, window shrink and seal insulation kit, silicone/rubber weather-stripping, foam tape for windows and doors and a door sweep, and foam outlet and
billion over 15 years, because of unprecedented inflation of construction materials costs.
“Local roads matter,” Sempolinski said. “They matter for public safety, economic development and quality of life. Investing in our roads and bridges is an investment in the future.”
ELECTRIC SCHOOL BUS CONCERNS
The lawmakers also expressed growing concerns over the impact of a state mandate that will, starting in 2027, require all new school bus purchases to be electric. New York’s 1,600 municipalities will be responsible for ensuring that the local road system is capable of handling the significantly heavier weight of
switch gaskets. Energy costs are on the minds of many due to higher billing rates and recent unusually cold weather, prompting the churches to undertake this initiative as part of their ongoing Communities of Care focus, according to organizers. Although property owners are entering seasons of warmer weather,
electric school buses. The lawmakers released some figures:
• A diesel school bus weighs about 10 tons per axle while an electric school bus carries about 14 tons on its front axle and 25 tons on its rear axle.
• Currently, with diesel school bus utilization most town roads have a 10-year expected life. When using a heavier electric bus, the expected life expectancy is only 8 years due to rutting of the subgrade.
“Not only is this a 20% shorter life but it is more costly because the subgrade failure requires the road to be replaced versus just the
items in the free kits can provide year-around savings, buffer against hot summer temperatures and cooling bills, and give individuals and families a head start on planning to reduce energy costs next fall and winter, they said. Individuals without pre-registrations still are able to attend the sessions, but will be ineligible for a free kit.
asphalt surface,” the lawmakers stated.
• A town’s cost for pavement maintenance would increase from a range of $20,000 to $50,000 per mile to about $550,000 per mile for reconstruction.
• New Yorks’s towns could see at least a ten-fold increase in the cost of maintaining their roads from this mandate.
“This is almost solely a town and village expense, because nearly all state, county and city roads are built to a different standard and won’t be as impacted by the heavier electric school buses,” the lawmakers stated.
St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated each year on March 17. The day honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, but it’s also a celebration of Irish culture. Although St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated around the world by people who can trace their lineage to the Emerald Isle, millions more with no such heritage join in the festivities each year. That means anyone who is Irish or just Irish in spirit can take part in St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. There are many entertaining ways to commemorate this special day. Here are a few to get the party started.
1. Eat green foods. Green is a prominent color for St. Patrick’s Day and Ireland in general. Many people eat foods and consume beverages dyed green on March 17.
2. Bake soda bread. Everyone can take part in the kitchen whipping up a batch of delicious Irish Soda Bread. This is a great recipe for kids because there’s no need to wait for dough to rise. Baking soda is the “soda” in the recipe and serves as the leavening agent.
3. Take part in a parade. St. Patrick’s Day parades are held in major cities across the country, making it relatively easy for people to be there in person. However, many communities also host parades that are small in scale but still big on fun.
7 fun ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
4. Attend an Irish dancing demonstration. Irish dance is a traditional dance that originated in Ireland. It is known for its intricate footwork and minimal upper-body movement.
5. Dine the Irish way. Although corned beef and cabbage is often served on St. Patrick’s Day, it is not the most authentic Irish fare one can eat. Find a restaurant that serves Irish stew, Boxty, Colcannon, or Black and white pudding, or try making such dishes at home.
6. Host a scavenger hunt. See who can find the gold at the base of the rainbow. Pick a person to organize the scavenger hunt. This person can write the clues and hide the prize.
7. Listen to Irish music. Tune in to The Chieftains, The Dubliners, Planxty, The Gloaming, The Wolfe Tones, and others to get into a festive spirit.
Enjoy the scores of different ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
