With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, students’ celebrations this March 17 will be different than they have been in years past.

Due to pandemic restrictions and social-distancing policies that limit how many people can be in a restaurant or other gathering place, St. Patrick’s Day 2021 has changed a lot of people’s outlook on the holiday, which coincides with the start of spring.

Does St. Patrick’s Day hold any significance for you (or your family) or is it just another day?

“Personally, St. Patrick’s Day is just another day for me, other than I might wear green and maybe get a Shamrock Shake,” said Dasha Kirby, a junior Digital Media and Strategic Communications double-major.

“This holiday isn’t really celebrated in Australia, so I’ve never grown up doing anything for it,” said Millie Laudenbach, a junior Digital and Strategic Communications double-major from Kambah, Australia. 

“However, since coming to the States, I’ve noticed it is quite a big deal, and have since celebrated it just by hanging with some mates. And wearing green, of course!”

What did you usually do for St. Patrick’s Day in the past?

“Chicago actually hosts the nation’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parade, where they even turn the river green,” said Josh Blair, a senior Marketing major and native of the Windy City area. “I like to go there to celebrate.”

What are your plans for St. Patrick’s Day this year?

“I will probably be celebrating responsibly with my friends,” said Blair. “We will dress up in festive colors, but we will definitely be staying in.”

“Wednesday is essentially my off day, so I might go hang out with friends,” said Kirby. “But other than that, most likely just school work.”

Has the pandemic altered your plans for St. Patrick’s Day?

“Not really, as I am always around these people. They’re like my pod,” said Laudenbach. “So for us, we don’t need to alter any plans.” 

“Yes, it has made it hard to have fun and celebrate with other people,” said Blair. “It’s more important to stay safe than it is to have fun. I will be more focused on staying safe.”