St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, and Stanton, Kentucky, is ready to paint the town green—figuratively, of course. Whether you’re Irish by blood or just Irish for the day, March 17 is the perfect excuse to celebrate with food, fun, and festive activities. Here’s your guide to making this St. Patrick’s Day in Stanton one for the books.
Start the Day With a Shamrock Shuffle
Why not kick off your St. Patrick’s Day with some fresh air and exercise? Stanton’s local parks and trails are ideal for morning walks or jogging. Add a festive twist by donning your best green gear—bonus points for shamrock-shaped sunglasses or leprechaun hats. Who says fitness can’t be fun?
For families, consider organizing a mini scavenger hunt at Red River Gorge nearby. Hide “gold coins” (or chocolate ones) around the trail for kids to find. It’s an easy way to get everyone outdoors and into the spirit of the holiday.
Crafty Leprechaun Fun for Kids
If you’ve got little ones, keep them entertained with some hands-on St. Patrick’s Day crafts. Set up a DIY station at home or join a local craft event (check with community centers in Stanton). Ideas include making leprechaun traps, decorating shamrock cookies, or creating rainbow art with pots of gold at the end. Not only will this keep kids busy, but it also makes for adorable Instagram-worthy moments.
Green Eats and Irish Treats
Stanton might be small, but its food scene can rise to any occasion. Many local eateries are expected to serve up special Irish-inspired dishes on March 17. Think hearty shepherd’s pie, corned beef, cabbage, or even green-tinted desserts like shamrock cupcakes.
For those who prefer to cook at home, why not try your hand at baking Irish soda bread? It’s surprisingly simple and pairs perfectly with a warm bowl of stew. And don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing Shamrock Shake or locally brewed craft beer—preferably something green!
Eco-Friendly Festivities: Go Green (Literally)
This year, let’s make St. Patrick proud by celebrating sustainably. Decorate your home with eco-friendly flair: think potted clover plants instead of disposable plastic décor or upcycled green garlands made from old fabric scraps. For lighting, swap out traditional bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs in festive hues of green.
Hosting a party? Opt for reusable dinnerware instead of single-use plastics and source ingredients from local farmers’ markets to support sustainable agriculture. Even your drinks can go green—choose organic wines or locally brewed beers to keep things eco-conscious.
Festive Games and Family Fun
Stanton families can enjoy plenty of lighthearted games that bring everyone together. Host a round of St. Patrick’s-themed bingo or charades—just replace the usual words with Irish-inspired prompts like “leprechaun,” “pot of gold,” or “rainbow.” For younger kids, leprechaun hide-and-seek is always a hit (just don’t forget where you hid the “gold”).
Looking for something more interactive? Try cookie decorating! Shape sugar cookies into shamrocks and rainbows, then let everyone go wild with green frosting and sprinkles.
Music and Merriment: A Celtic Soundtrack
No St. Patrick’s Day celebration is complete without music! Create an Irish-themed playlist featuring traditional Celtic tunes alongside modern hits from Irish artists like U2 or The Cranberries. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a tin whistle or fiddle and attempt some Irish folk songs yourself—your neighbors might even join in.
For those seeking live entertainment, check if any local venues in Stanton host Irish music nights or karaoke events. Singing “Danny Boy” at full volume might just become your new favorite tradition.
A Toast to History: Learn About Saint Patrick
Take a moment during the festivities to reflect on the origins of St. Patrick’s Day. Did you know that Saint Patrick wasn’t actually Irish? He was born in Roman Britain and brought Christianity to Ireland in the fifth century. Legend has it he used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity—a story that explains why we associate this day with all things green.
You can dive deeper into history by reading about Ireland’s rich cultural heritage or watching documentaries about Saint Patrick himself. For families, consider sharing these stories over dinner—it’s an easy way to mix fun with education.
Green Landmarks: A Stanton Spin
While Chicago dyes its river green each year, Stanton offers its own natural beauty that doesn’t need artificial coloring! Take a short drive to explore Red River Gorge or Natural Bridge State Resort Park—both are stunning examples of Kentucky’s lush greenery that would make even Ireland jealous.
If you’re staying closer to town, decorate your front yard with green lights or shamrocks made from recycled materials. Who says you need skyscrapers when you’ve got Kentucky charm?
End Your Night With an Irish Movie Marathon
After a day full of activities, wind down with an Irish-themed movie night at home. Classics like The Secret of Roan Inish or Darby O’Gill and the Little People are perfect for families, while films like Brooklyn or In Bruges cater more to adults.
Pair your movie marathon with some cozy snacks—popcorn sprinkled with green sugar or homemade Guinness brownies—and let the luck of the Irish guide your remote control.
This St. Patrick’s Day in Stanton promises something for everyone: laughter for kids, delicious bites for foodies, and plenty of opportunities to embrace Irish culture and sustainable living practices. So throw on your best green outfit (no pinching required) and get ready to celebrate!
Sources: foresthomesstore.com, thepioneerwoman.com
Header Image Source: Autumn Martin on Unsplash
