St. Patrick's Day Traditions

Sure, you know that to avoid a pinch on St. Patrick's Day you should wear green. But do you know how to make traditional Irish soda bread? The words to a few Irish songs? Which city dyes a river green? Read on for a lesson on traditions, familiar and new.

A St. Patrick's Day menu wouldn't be complete without corned beef and cabbage. The ritual of serving this on St. Patrick's Day was started by Irish-Americans in the mid-1800s. Corned beef was used as a substitute for bacon in the traditional Irish dish of bacon and cabbage. Pair with your favorite potato recipe for a true Irishman's feast.

Irish soda bread, a longstanding and delicious St. Patrick's Day tradition, is the perfect accompaniment to corned beef and cabbage. Add raisins to give it extra flavor.

The origin of this simple drink is widely disputed. Multiple sources claim to have invented it. But whether it's originally from Ireland or not, the drink is delicious. Enjoy a cup and celebrate the day!

Looking for a quick way to bake some Irish fun? Add a few drops of green food coloring to your baked goods and share them with your friends and neighbors.

You don't have to be in Ireland to commemorate the day. New York City, Chicago, Boston, and many other cities throw huge St. Patrick's Day celebrations, including parades.

Legend has it that Saint Patrick used three-leaf clovers to illustrate the concept of the Trinity (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). They are abundant in Ireland, which is why they became a symbol of St. Patrick's Day. Four-leaf clovers are rare and are therefore considered lucky. Paint a clover on your face or dress in clover-print garment to make your day a lucky one.

According to the National Leprechaun Museum in Dublin, Ireland, if you can catch a leprechaun, he is obliged to tell you where his gold is stashed. But keep a close eye on him; legend has it he's liable to disappear if you look away.

Going to be in Chicago the Saturday before St. Patrick's Day? Head downtown to see the parade and watch the Chicago River magically turn a delightful shade of Irish green. Around 5,000 spectators line the sides of Columbus Drive every year to watch the dyeing of the river, a tradition that is more than 40 years old.

The unique steps and beautiful costumes make Irish step dancing a St. Patrick's Day favorite. Catch a performance at your local parade or Irish festival.

Be prepared to have a green smile on St. Patrick's Day. Beverages at restaurants, street festivals, and bars are often dyed green in honor of the day.

The sound of bagpipes in the air is a St. Patrick's Day standard. Check out performances by the unique, talented musicians at a local parade or festival.

It wouldn't be St. Patrick's Day without some traditional Irish tunes. Dress in green, grab a pint, and start singing!

To get you in the Irish spirit, here are four great Ireland-set movies to enjoy on St. Patrick's Day:

1. Leap Year (2010), starring Amy Adams

2. Circle of Friends (1995), starring Chris O'Donnell and Minnie Driver

3. Far and Away (1992), starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman

4. The Quiet Man (1952), starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara