St Patrick’s Day is arguably the only celebration that sees as much hype overseas as back home. The American tradition of this festivity has completely taken over our imagination, and London certainly does not fall short!
If you have always wanted to celebrate St Patrick’s Day, but you are not able to travel to Ireland, then stay put and mark your calendars, because London is a great place to join in the festivities.
We are aware that on this particular day, you might feel pressured into drinking. Baby Guinness and tall, foaming pints are what most people think about when celebrating St Patrick’s Day. However, we want you to know that you can absolutely have a blast and not drink if you wish not to. Irish culture is rich in history and traditions far beyond beer, and London is a great place to experience it!
We have thought about some activities for you to enjoy a fabulous St Patrick’s Day in London. Take notes and think about how you can incorporate these 4 suggestions into your routine this week…
1. Listen to live Irish Folk Music
If you want to feel transported to a classic Irish pub tonight, we have the perfect suggestion for you. The Pig's Ear Pub has prepared a night of awesome Irish folk music, great vibes, and classic Irish grub—no need for a drink in hand to have a blast!
You’ll get to enjoy great live music, tasty food, and a lively atmosphere, all while meeting new people and soaking up the festive spirit. Plus, it’s a great way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with friends, whether or not you’re into drinking. Book your place on Eventbrite!
2. Join a walking tour
The influence of Irish culture in the English capital does not go unnoticed: so many writers, doctors, and notable people have made a long-lasting impact on British history. If you’re curious to know more, join this walking tour to find out!
Rebel Tours hosts a huge variety of walking tours to get to know London like you never have. They’ll hold a couple of different slots for a St Patrick’s Day-themed visit, so you’ll have plenty of choices to join them! You can find your ticket through this link.
3. Drink a Cup of Irish Tea
If you prefer more home-y and cozy celebrations, nothing beats a nice cuppa! Now that the weather has become cold again, it’s a good moment to indulge in a proper Irish brew. Legend says that every Irish family either drinks Lyons or Barry’s Tea and constantly contends which is best.
This national debacle has not found a clear winner – will you put them to the test? Or will you be unconventional and go for the third contender: Bewley’s Tea? Let us know which one you prefer, but most of all, enjoy the experience of a tranquil at-home tasting session, either alone or with friends!
4. Watch Irish popular media
A great way to feel absorbed into a new culture is to consume its media—books, TV shows, movies—the pick is yours! From heartwarming dramas to hilarious comedies, there’s something for everyone.
It’s a fun, cozy way to dive into Irish culture from the comfort of your couch. Plus, it’s a great excuse to binge-watch some hidden gems and enjoy a little piece of Ireland without leaving home! We personally recommend the series Derry Girls, available on Netflix, and Small Things Like These, a touching historical drama starring Cillian Murphy.
We hope you enjoyed this list of recommendations and that you make the most out of this special celebration! Remember, St. Patrick's Day is all about having fun and celebrating Irish culture, and you should never feel pressured to drink to be a part of it.
At KCLSU, we are so appreciative of the incredible contributions all of our Irish students make to the student body. We want to support them the best we can, celebrating Irish history and cultural legacy in unison. So embrace the day your way and enjoy all the unique experiences it has to offer without worrying about fitting in!