St. Patrick's Day Happy Hour Ideas

St. Patrick’s Day and happy hour were made for each other! In our area, a couple of local Irish pubs throw huge St. Patrick’s Day parties. They rival a lot of the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations from my college years which is saying a lot. As we’ve gotten older and now have a baby, hosting a St. Patrick’s Day celebration at home is more my speed. And, with St. Patrick’s Day falling on a Friday this year, a fun happy hour at home sounds like the best way to celebrate. Here are some St. Patrick’s Day happy hour ideas including a St. Patrick’s Day menu and St. Patrick’s Day decorations.

St. Patrick’s Day Menu

Let’s start with the menu. We’re talking about a happy hour so the menu doesn’t have to be expansive. However, you still want it to be substantial enough to tide guests over till dinner. As with any get together, the goal is to keep it simple so you can enjoy yourself as well. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite recipes from the internet that fit the theme. While some are Irish inspired, others are simply green. I suggest make one to three of these depending on the number of guests you are expecting.

St. Patrick’s Day Decorations

As always, I’m keeping the decor simple, yet impactful. Instead of using a lot of St. Patrick’s Day themed items, I would focus more on incorporating lots of green. Since the decor for St. Patrick’s Day happy hour is simple, I’ve included the supplies you’ll need for an effortless celebration as well. Here is what you will need.

Green Block Print Tablecloth

I love this tablecloth for the pattern it brings to the space. Since the decor will be simple overall, this added pattern adds style without going over the top. Plus, since it is not theme specific, it can be used for other occasions.

Green and Gold Vase

This green and gold vase is the perfect topper to the block print tablecloth. The gold base helps break up the green on green while still giving the table a monochromatic and festive feel. This vase isn’t massive so I might do a few depending on the size of your table. Add fresh white flowers like hydrangeas to complete the look.

Rocks Glasses

I own these Riedel rocks glasses and love them. The cut crystal feels fancy but the glass is still substantial so you don’t feel like they are too delicate. These fall under the supply category versus the decor category. After all, it is St. Patrick’s Day and you will need something to drink your Irish whiskey from.

Gold and Wood Grain Disposable Silverware

I love disposables when entertaining. It’s not very eco friendly, but it makes life a lot easier when everyone leaves for the night. Depending on what menu items you choose, you may not need silverware. But, if you do, I suggest this set. I’ve purchased and use these before for Thanksgiving and can personally attest to their durability and beauty - especially for a disposable.

Sláinte Cocktail Napkins

I love a good themed cocktail napkin. It’s the perfect way to acknowledge the theme without going way over the top. I’m a big fan of subtlety and items that can be reused for a multitude of occasions if you didn’t know. These feel a bit more upscale and I love how they coordinate with the green and gold vases. By the way, sláinte means “cheers” in Irish.

Shamrock Garland

I know I just finished saying I’m a fan of items that can get used for various occasions. However, this shamrock garland was too cute to pass up. Plus, it wasn’t super expensive so if it only gets used once a year, I’m okay with that. I would hang it above the big window in our kitchen (where most gatherings take place at our house). I would suggest hanging it wherever you expect people to gather for happy hour.

Disposable Bamboo Appetizer Plates

These are a supply I keep on hand for all occasions. They are more durable than traditional disposables and look nicer as well. They come in a big pack but you will be able to use them for any gathering - planned or not.

Disposable Tossware Pint Glasses

Disposable pint glasses are another supply item I suggest, but you don’t have to have. You can definitely drink your Guinness or Smithwick’s straight from the bottle. But, if you or your guests prefer a glass and you don’t have enough pint glasses to go around, these are my preferred disposable glassware. They are more expensive but they are durable and look nice.

Irish Flag

This can go inside or out, it’s up to you. You could use it as a table topper over a small table or hang it on an empty wall. Much like the shamrock garland, it is theme specific but not a big investment (less than $10). So, if it only gets used once a year, it’s not a big loss.

Shamrock Cocktail Picks

Depending on your menu, you may or may not need these. If you do, these will add a cute St. Patrick’s Day touch to your food table.

EntertainingSarah Whitest. patrick's dayComment