St. Patrick’s Day is one of the biggest social and economic holidays in the United States, celebrated by over 60% of adults. In 2024, consumers spent more than $7.2 billion on the holiday. Mainly celebrated on March 17, iconic traditions for this holiday include wearing green, sporting shamrocks, attending parades, drinking beer, and enjoying Irish food. St. Patrick’s Day remains a cherished holiday celebrated by people of all generations.
Although St. Patrick’s Day often falls during Rowan’s Spring Break, many students still find ways to celebrate the weekend. Whether they’re planning bar crawls or attending day parties hosted by fraternities, the holiday weekend is a notable event for many college students.
Luis Santos, a junior economics major, is still finalizing his plans, but says he’ll likely head to McGillins’ Pub in Philadelphia.
“I plan to drink a couple of beers, hang out with friends, and order food. The food is super good at McGillins,” said Santos.
Georgia Debrau, a sophomore psychology major, is opting for a bar crawl closer to home.
“Since I’m 21, I’m going to do a bar crawl around Hoboken,” Debrau said. “I don’t plan to order any Irish food at the bar. I’ll just order fries and a Diet Coke.”
Ben Wellner, a senior environmental planning major, plans a more traditional celebration at home.
“My mom is making corned beef and hash, which I’m super excited for,” said Wellner.
Katie Schuster, a sophomore environmental science major, is also heading to Philadelphia for St. Paddy’s weekend.
“I’m not 100% sure what I’m going to do in Philadelphia, but I’ll either be at the club or do a bar crawl around Philadelphia,” said Schuster.
Troy Volpe, a junior computer science major, is trading shamrocks for sunshine.
“For St. Patrick’s Day, I’m going down to Bay Harbor, Florida, for a spring break trip, just hanging out with my friends,” said Volpe.
Maxx Eichenbaum, a freshman accounting major, is considering a celebration closer to home. While he’s not “100% not sure” of his plans, he might go home to celebrate.
“My family usually cooks corned beef and hash with potatoes every year for St. Patrick’s Day,” said Eichenbaum.
Brendan Hee, a freshman English major, is keeping his celebration low-key this weekend.
“I’m going to a friend’s house and playing poker,” said Hee. “I will try to cook some Irish food this year.”
Whether students choose to celebrate with traditional fare, a lively bar scene, or a sunny getaway, St. Patrick’s Day offers a good opportunity for college students to unwind, relax, and enjoy quality time with friends.
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