How to Celebrate Irish Culture

Ireland has a long, colorful and sometimes painful history. Still, the Irish people have a joyousness to them that is represented in their food, dance, music and literature. Celebrate Irish culture by enjoying one or more of these Irish exports.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Enjoy Irish food. Irish food is hearty and tasty. Popular dishes include shepherd's pie, lamb stew, corned beef and cabbage and breads, such as Irish soda bread and scones.

2. Celebrate St. Patrick's Day. St. Patrick's Day honors Ireland's patron saint, St. Patrick. In America, the day is celebrated in cities with a large Irish-American community with parades, wearing green, plentiful corned beef and lots of green beer.

3. Listen to Irish music. This type of music has a poetic, beguiling quality, whether you are listening to an Irish tenor; a popular singer, such as Sinead O'Conner; or a rock group, such as U2.

4. Wear green. Green is the traditional color of Ireland, reminiscent of the rolling, green fields of clover found throughout the country. Wear a bright Kelly green sweater, scarf or other piece of clothing to show your appreciation of Irish culture.

5. Watch Irish dancing. Irish clap-dancing is an ancient art form, derived from the Celts that once inhabited Ireland. Today, this dance is preserved by dance companies and shows, such as the popular "River Dance."

6. Read Irish authors. Ireland has a long literary history. Authors, such as Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker and James Joyce hail from the "Emerald Isle" as do playwrights, George Bernard Shaw and Samuel Beckett and the poet, William B. Yeats.