Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Vegas
Travel back in time to early medieval Ireland and learn the origin of the go-green holiday, especially cultivated by Americans. Grab a pint of green beer and get ready to learn about what Las Vegas has to offer during St. Paddy’s season.
Why Do We Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?
Back In Ireland: Brief Historical Context
When we think of Saint Patrick, we automatically think of Ireland! Right? So, here is the first surprising fact: Saint Patrick was not Irish, he was born in Britain in the late fourth century. Maewyn Succat (St. Patrick’s birth name) was enslaved by Irish raiders, and after years of forced slavery, he joined the Catholic church. He then changed his name to Patricius or Patrick. After that, he returned to Ireland as a missionary and spent nearly 30 years.
Legend has it that he expelled all the snakes out of Ireland. The truth is that there never were snakes on the island. He died in 461 and then became the Patron Saint of Ireland, despite his British heritage. In 1903 Saint Patrick’s Day becomes a national holiday in Ireland, on March 17th. Back then, people gathered at church for a feast, as drinking on this day was banned in Ireland until 1970. Nowadays, 13 million pints of Guinness are distributed worldwide for consumption on Saint Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day in America
Irish immigrants brought the tradition to America in the early 1700s. The first-ever St. Patrick’s Day Parade was held in Boston in 1737. Since 1962, Chicago has colored its river green to mark the holiday. They use 40 lbs. (approximately 18kg) of strong green dye to turn the river greener each year!
In the past, blue was commonly associated with St. Patrick’s, but now green is the color connected with the day. Nowadays, 34 million Americans claim Irish ancestry. However, on St. Patrick’s, both Irish and non-Irish join the “wearing of the green”. The tradition consists in sporting an item of green clothing or a shamrock, the Irish traditional 3-leaf clover.
Nowadays, there are over 100 St. Patrick’s Day parades across the United States. New York City hosts the largest parade in the world, with over 2 million spectators every year. It is the oldest continuously running parade, entertaining the public since 1756.
Along with the “wearing of the green” tradition, comes green-colored beer. It is said to be the creation of a doctor called Thomas Curtin at a party in the Bronx in 1914. The novelty seems to have really stuck with American drinkers. It has become the go-to drink each and every St. Patrick’s Day.
But what is the secret behind green beer? Does it taste different from regular beer? It turns out to be quite simple. There is absolutely no trick to making green beer, nor there are special bartending skills required. You will need a pint of light-colored beer and a drop of green food coloring added to it. The flavor remains the same.
Green Beer and More: Local Breweries and St. Patrick’s in Vegas
The Beer Scene in Vegas
Sin City is known as a unique spot to have exquisite cocktails, not only green ones during St. Patrick’s, but on any day of the year. However, no major city escapes the craft beer movement. But what makes craft beer so popular? In a survey conducted by the Dutch food corporation DSM, young people were found to be the powerhouse of this movement.
According to the survey, nearly half of the young drinkers said that they like craft beer because they like to try something new. Craft beer allows for a great diversity of beer styles and taste profiles. Nevertheless, people of all ages are attracted to the tasteful drink. From dog-inspired beer to a brewery owned by two siblings to a ton of options within the craft beer scenario: Vegas is on the map. Find out more about local breweries with their own tasting rooms in this article by Eater Las Vegas.
Not a fan of craft beer? Like to stick to your traditions? No problem! Las Vegas has got you covered as well. As with virtually any other entertainment option, Vegas has its share of traditional bars and pubs for you to choose from. Find your way to your favorite pint with this list by TripAdvisor.
You may choose to treat your tastebuds to some new and exciting flavors from delicious craft beer. Or it may be your best choice to stick with familiar brands for a couple of pints. Either way, your best option for transportation is surely booking one of the distinctive models from the noteworthy fleet at Vegas Vip Limo.
Saint Patrick’s Celebrations in Sin City
In 2022, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has partnered up with the “Global Greening Initiative” by Tourism Ireland to turn the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign green. The action starts on Friday, March 11th, 2022. The sign will remain green until March 17th, in honor of the Irish heritage.
Las Vegas takes entertainment way too seriously and St. Patrick’s Day is no exception. The epicenter of celebrations is the Freemont Street Experience. During the festivities, while visitors will still be able to see the traditional ziplines over Freemont Street, like the SlotZilla, they can also enjoy tons of Irish-themed attractions. Freemont Street will be the venue for free live music including 20 bands, as well as lots of bars offering drink specials on St. Patrick’s Day.
Other Las Vegas must-sees are going green for this year’s St. Patrick’s Day. The LINQ Promenade and the High Roller, The Venetian and The Palazzo marquees, Plaza Hotel & Casino in Downtown, and the historic La Concha Visitors Center at the Neon Museum.
No Drinking And Driving On St. Patrick’s!
St. Patrick’s day is the perfect opportunity to grab a pint of beer – green or not – and celebrate with your family or friends. Even drinking on the streets is allowed in the city (no glass containers, of course). Ensure a seamless and comfortable experience by booking chauffeured for you and your party. Las Vegas VIP Transportation Services undoubtedly has a luxury vehicle that is the right fit for your needs and desires.