Actually, I had heard that once upon a time. Thanks for bringing it up...I've always heard that the day was observed much more sedately in Ireland than it was here.

I live in an enclave of folks known affectionately as "The South Side Irish"...they even have their own parade on St. Pat's and they schedule it so that the Downtown Chicago parade is the day before thereby ensuring something more like St. Paddy's WEEK rather than St. Paddy's DAY...thus the need for massive amounts of corned beef.

Fortunately, Guiness in the magic cans and bottles also goes on sale this week. And...I know, I know...it's not as good as draught and "it's different over there" but those magic cans and bottles do come in handy when your only other choice is Miller MGD.

Best

AA