The Ultimate Survival Guide Vol. 1: St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland

There’s no better day of the year in Ireland than St. Patrick’s Day. Locals and visitors come together. Green beer is had—and enjoyed—by all. It’s the party of all parties and everyone is invited. If this sounds like your cup of Guinness, we’ve got insider tips to share so you make the most of (and survive) St. Paddy’s Day in Ireland.

1. Eat all the carbs. Then eat more.

The only way to get through a full day of partying with the Irish is eating like the Irish. Scarf down a traditional Irish breakfast, usually consisting of meat (bacon, sausages and black and white puddings), eggs, vegetables and potato, not to mention a generous helping of homemade brown bread. Your 3pm self will thank you.

2. Dress like a leprechaun.

Why? Because you're in Ireland and it's a fun costume to wear. At the very least wear green. Because while dressing like a leprechaun isn't exactly "traditional" in Ireland, wearing green is. And not abiding by this rule is a classic mistake. Feel free to add some white and orange into the mix, but green is the most important color. Paint your face, your toenails, and your entire body if you want. The more ridiculous, the better.

3. The early bird gets the best spot for the parade.

One of the highlights of the day is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, with plenty of music, people, and good ol' comraderie.. It’s pretty much the reason you go to Ireland on March 17th. And while the parade might not start until noon, all the good spots will be taken by 9am or 10am.

4. Lost and found.

Believe it or not, you won’t be the only one in Ireland for St. Paddy’s Day. There will be crowds. Big ones. Find a buddy to stick with at all times, and set a meeting point with your group in case you split up.

5. Three words: Pace. Yo’. Self.

Remember—this is a marathon, not a sprint. The Guinness will be flowing all day and night, so there’s no need to start too early. Drink plenty of water, continue to eat food throughout the day, and you’ll cross the finish line with flying colors (green, orange, and white of course).

6. Be Irish.

Not literally—unless you’re actually Irish. But St. Patrick’s Day is a day to embrace the Irish way of life. Dance like the locals, sing with the locals, and don’t be afraid to embarrass yourself. Go all in. YOSPDIIO (You only St. Paddy’s Day in Ireland once).