Celebrate St. Patrick's Day 2008 in North Dakota

Ahh, St. Patrick's Day. Cute little leprechauns and shamrocks aplenty. 'Kiss me I'm Irish' t-shirts, sparkly green top hats, and green beer. Corned beef and cabbage, parades, and pinching those not in green. People from all walks of life and heritage join in and celebrate a bit o' the Irish on this festive day.

It's just not St. Patrick's Day without a parade. The first St. Patrick's Day parade was held in New York City in 1762 to honor the saint who drove the snakes from Ireland. And with St. Patrick's Day right around the corner, North Dakota families who are looking for a way to celebrate need to look no further than Fargo.

Described as a fun family event, spectators are encouraged to don their finest green and head to downtown Fargo to take in the St. Patrick's Day parade. With over 60 entries, there's something for everyone, including the local group Heather and Thistle Bagpipe and Drum band, family clans, and Irish dancers. St. Patrick's Day isn't complete with feasting on traditional Irish food and drink at participating Fargo eateries. The parade begins at 3 p.m. on Broadway in downtown Fargo, but get there early!

For those who live too far way to make the trip to Fargo this year, check with the local family restaurants for Irish-themed cuisine. However, there are plenty of ways to celebrate at home with the children. With plenty of recipes for an Irish breakfast such as the Irish soda bread and for supper an Irish stew, lads and lassies can sample traditional Irish cuisine in the comfort of their own home. Green Beer or Emerald Isle punch make for interesting beverages. For the wee tots, a bit of Leprechaun Pudding finishes off the menu.

There are several fun games for Mom and Dad to play with the kids, from the Pot o' Gold or Shamrock hunt to Leprechaun Mischief. While the gold or shamrock hunt is self-explanatory, to prepare for Leprechaun Mischief, simply choose a room in the home to put in disarray. Rearrange small furniture pieces, hide things, scatter gold coins around, and leave tiny green footprints. When the children come in, have them find all the silly things the "leprechaun" did. It's a great way to explain about the legend of the leprechaun.

Don't forget to include the wee ones in the costuming. Green beads, shamrock headbands, or even a bit of green eyeliner pencil to decorate their rosy cheeks are great fun for kids.

However you decide to celebrate, may the road rise up to meet you, and may the wind always be at your back.