Guinness is great, but definitely not the only thing you should be cheers-ing with this St. Patrick’s Day. Green beer is a common tradition for your typical March 17th celebration, but there are plenty of other options for you gluten-free drinkers or for those who just want to try something new this year.
So celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the Irish way and get your day going whether you are Irish or not.
#SpoonTip: Don’t forget to carb up before all your drinking with things like corned beef and cabbage, Reuben sandwiches, potatoes, and Irish soda bread.
Guinness Float
Photo by Daniel Schuleman
I know I said we were going the untraditional route, but you gotta have a little Guinness in something on March 17.
Snakebite
Photo courtesy of prettyprudent.com
This beer cocktail is something you may not even be able to get at a bar here in America, but it’s definitely worth a try. Anyone who has studied in Ireland will tell you they loved this refreshing cocktail.
Jell-O Shots
Photo by Alex Waxenbaum
These are the perfect way to get the party going for all those fellow Jell-O shot lovers. Use green Jell-O to get in the St. Patty’s Day spirit.
Irish Coffee
A personal favorite, because who doesn’t love coffee and booze? Answer: nobody.
Buckfast Bomb
Finally introduced our #BuckyBomb to HCForest pic.twitter.com/7JS5fSzNOr
— Mussel Men (@Mussel_Men) September 16, 2015
Buckfast is a tonic wine from Scotland that is very popular in Ireland. If you can’t get it in the states, just swap it out for mulled wine – it’ll keep you warm on what’s sure to be a chilly day and it’s almost classy.
#SpoonTip: It might be hard to find, but ask some of your abroad homies to sneak some in their carry on.
Baby Guinness
Photo courtesy of thelala.com
This shot is the perfect opportunity for anyone who doesn’t usually like to take shots to have their turn.
Grasshopper
Photo courtesy of thedrinkblog.com
Great option for dessert or something sweet to cater to those who don’t enjoy the taste of alcohol.
Irish Car Bomb
Photo courtesy of barmansjournal.com
The car bomb. You will never see a real Irish person ordering this in Ireland, but it is definitely necessary here in America on March 17. If you’re really a champ, you will race your friends to see who chugs faster.
#SpoonTip: Drink it fast, don’t let it curdle.
Magners Cider
Photo by Amanda Gajdosik
As original as it gets. Check out Bulmer’s cider for all you gluten-free drinkers. Crisp and not too sweet, you’ll be drinking this even when it isn’t St. Patrick’s Day.
Shamrock Juice
Photo courtesy of mixthatdrink.com
This drink is perfect for those looking to relive their Mardi Gras weekend – it is similar to a hurricane, except for its color. If you’re looking for the biggest buzz, this is definitely one of your better options.
Booze Free Option: Shamrock Shake
Photo courtesy of Vasenka Photography
If you really aren’t feeling like including some booze in your St. Patrick’s Day this year, McDonald’s green shake is calling your name.