How to Have a Safe and Festive St. Patrick's Day 2021
March 08, 2021
Lifestyle
Chicagoland is known around the world for our legendary St. Patrick's Day traditions, including dyeing the Chicago River bright green.
Traditionally, people from around the country flock to Chicagoland to share their Irish pride and mark the unofficial beginning of the spring season.
While holiday celebrations are sure to look a little different this year, there are still plenty of creative and fun ways to enjoy St. Patrick's Day — while staying safe along the way.
Looking for a little inspiration? Here are seven fun ways to celebrate a special St. Patrick's Day in Chicagoland for 2021:
1.) Celebrate With "Shamrock Our Blocks"
While both of Chicago's major St. Patrick's Day parades are canceled again this year due to COVID, the organizers of the traditional South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade are embracing a new tradition in 2021: "Shamrock Our Blocks." This festive celebration encourages Chicago residents to get creative and decorate their cars, lawns, light poles, and houses for the holiday, with prizes — including gift cards for local businesses — awarded to the top displays. To learn more or get involved in the festivities, check out this great guide from NBC Chicago.2.) Create DIY Decor for the Day
A St. Patrick's Day at home can be a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some family friendly activities with your loved ones — such as whipping up some special holiday arts and crafts. There's no shortage of fun ways to embrace the St. Patrick's Day theme. From cutting out paper shamrocks, to designing a festive St. Patrick's Day wreath, to whipping up festive handmade signs and cards, the only limit to what you can DIY is your imagination. For some ideas to get started, check out these great guides from Good Housekeeping, DIY Projects, and Country Living.3.) Learn to Play Some Traditional Tunes
Music is a wonderful way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. This year, look into Irish bands and festivals putting on virtual shows you can enjoy right from your living room — or pick up an instrument for yourself! Lots of local Chicagoland music schools are offering virtual lessons for aspiring musicians of all ages, including Old Town School of Folk Music, Flatts & Sharpe Music Company, the New Music School, Upbeat Music Chicago, and the Irish American Heritage Center.4.) Go Somewhere "Green"
March is a time of unpredictable weather here in Chicagoland. Some days may be cold and brisk, others may be warm and sunny. When the sun is out and you hear nature calling your name, you're never far from some incredible natural beauty. If escaping into nature sounds like your perfect St. Patrick's Day, check out our guide to Chicagoland's best outdoor sights, or our favorite places to spend a Spring day.5.) Order Your Favorite Foods from a Local Restaurant
Craving traditional Irish foods? Chicagoland is home to some truly incredible Irish pubs and eateries, many of which offer delivery and curbside pickup so you can enjoy a festive feast from home. Check out this list of Chicagoland's essential Irish restaurants from Eater Chicago, or look for local spots open near you with Dining at a Distance. Some classic pubs and restaurants to look into include Lady Gregory's, Mrs. Murphy and Sons Irish Bistro, Galway Arms, Fado Irish Pub, Cork & Kerry, and The Curragh.6.) See a Drive-In Movie
Movie theaters may be closed, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy some big screen thrills! Drive-in theaters and pop-ups have kept the art of cinema alive throughout the pandemic. To see what's playing, check out the listings at Chitown Movies, Chi-Together, and Chicago Drive-In Theaters.7.) Explore Chicagoland's Irish History and Culture
St. Patrick's Day is a day to celebrate, but it's also a wonderful opportunity to look back and reflect. This holiday can be a great jumping off point for anyone looking to dig into Chicagoland's storied past. The Irish American Heritage Center in Mayfair is a great resource, boasting a museum, a library, and a gallery; the Center also hosts fun and educational online events and festivals throughout the year. The Chicago History Museum is another excellent resource for stepping back in time. For more local inspiration, check out our list of museums and attractions offering virtual events here in Chicagoland.Chicagoland, We're By Your Side — No Matter What
At Baird & Warner, we're all about connecting people with the best things to see, do, and experience around Chicagoland. After all, we've been a part of helping to build and grow this community since 1855. Whether you're looking to find the neighborhood that's right for you, get your home ready to sell, or just start discovering all the wonderful things that make the Chicago area unique, we get you. Our agents are hyperlocal experts who are here to help you find exactly what you're looking for, while making the entire real estate experience easier at every step of the way.Tags:
