For one day each year, countries around the world turn green in honour of Ireland—donning green tights, red beards, and iconic hats. From leprechauns and shamrocks to pints of Guinness, March 17th is all about celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.

Who Was Saint Patrick?

Let’s be honest—most people see St. Patrick’s Day as a fun excuse to party and enjoy Irish culture (and we don't blame them!). But behind the festivities lies real history. Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and is credited with bringing Christianity to the island. Legend has it that he used a shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity, which is why it became a national symbol of Ireland.

March 17th marks the anniversary of his death, and it's now celebrated globally—from Dublin to Paris and even Chicago, where the river is famously dyed green in his honour. These celebrations are not just for the Irish—millions of people around the world join in, whether they’re Irish or Irish for the day.

Interestingly, from the early 1900s until the mid-1970s, the day wasn't always about pints and parties. In fact, due to religious observance, Irish MP James O’Mara banned pubs from opening on St. Patrick’s Day. Thankfully for Guinness, that rule no longer applies. Today, the brewery sells over 13 million pints on March 17th alone—making up nearly 10% of its annual revenue.

Guinness—and So Much More!

Guinness may be the poster child for St. Patrick’s Day, but Ireland’s craft beer scene is rapidly gaining ground. With the rise of independent breweries, Irish beer has become more diverse than ever. The country’s passion for beer is unmatched, and it’s no surprise that craft beer has found a place not only in Irish pubs but also in homes across the globe.

While stouts, porters, and lagers remain favourites, one standout style is the Irish Red Ale. Known for its amber to copper hue with reddish highlights and creamy off-white head, this style delivers aromas of caramel, roasted malt, and biscuit—typically with a lower alcohol content. Brewed with Irish or British malts, these beers offer rich, biscuity notes and deep colour. Breweries like Kinnegar, Rascals, and Eight Degrees are leading the way in the Irish craft beer revolution, offering exciting new flavours to explore this St. Patrick’s Day.

Can’t make it to Dublin this year? No problem. You can still bring the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day home. Host your own Irish beer tasting session with friends or family. Not sure where to find authentic Irish brews? We’ve got you covered with our handpicked Ireland Collection—your ticket to discovering Ireland’s best beers without leaving your home.

And as the Irish say, “Sláinte!” — Cheers!

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