Originally Irish, Saint Patrick’s Day has become associated with shamrocks and luck, and anything green and gold. But to those who celebrate its intended meaning, St Patrick’s Day is a day for spiritual renewal and offering prayers for missionaries worldwide.
Celebrated on 17 March, in American cities with a large Irish population, St Patrick’s Day is a very big deal. It’s celebrated with parades, wearing of the green, music, dancing, Irish food and drinks, and activities for kids such as crafts, colouring and games. Some cities such as Chicago go as far as dyeing rivers or streams green.
So why is it celebrated on 17 March? One theory is that 17 March is the day that St Patrick died. St Patrick is the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. Since the holiday began in Ireland, it is believed that as the Irish spread out around the world, they took with them their history and celebrations. The biggest observance of all is, of course, in Ireland. With the exception of restaurants and pubs, almost all businesses close on 17 March. Being a religious holiday as well, many Irish attend mass, where 17 March is the traditional day for offering prayers for missionaries worldwide before the serious celebrating begins.
Regardless of the small number of the Irish community here, St Patrick’s Day has found its way to Qatar. Here’s where you can go and get a glimpse of Ireland’s most popular celebration:
Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery
Spread the Luck at O’Glacée Poolside Restaurant on St. Patrick’s Day!
When: 17 March | 6 pm – 11 pm
Where: O’Glacée Poolside Restaurant
Price: Special Hops Buckets at QAR149 and a selection of special St. Patrick’s Cocktails from a la carte selection
Call 4009 9666 or WhatsApp +974 3075 8211
Dusit Doha Hotel
Paddy’s Brunch We’re going to paint the town green! Come celebrate Paddy’s Day at Taste with a one-day Irish-themed brunch. Revelers can expect Irish tidbits and cuisine, a lively atmosphere with live entertainment and some good ol’ craic.
When: 18 March | 12:30 pm – 4 pm
Where: Taste
Price: QAR299 (inclusive of soft beverages) or QAR 410 (inclusive of enhanced beverage package)
For more information or reservations, call 4004 4444
Marriott Marquis City Center Doha
GET MERRY THIS PADDY’S DAY AT CHAMPIONS Grab your green garms and head to Champions this Paddy’s Day. From 16 – 18 March, enjoy classic Irish dishes including soda bread and sausages, bacon butty sandwiches, sliders and more while you wash it down with green hops and Irish specialty beverages crafted for the occasion. Don’t miss the live band screening exclusively on 17 March!
When: 16 – 18 March | 5 pm
Where: Champions
For reservations, call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890
Mondrian Doha
Paddy’s Day Special dishes of the day and deals on Irish beverages and shooters
When: 17 March
Where: Hudson Tavern
Price: Drinks starting QAR33
For more information or for reservations, call 4045 5999 or email [email protected]
W Doha Hotel & Residences
Shamrock N Roll What’s at the end of the rainbow? Brunch!! Head to the Market by Jean-Georges this Friday for the luckiest Irish brunch in town! With live entertainment!
When: Friday, 18 March, noon – 4 pm
Where: Market by Jean-Georges
St. Paddy’s Day Special Brunch and Party! Get your Irish on and we’ll take it from there. Special green bites and sips available!
When: Friday, 18 March, 4 pm – 7 pm
Where: Wahm
Contact 4453 5135 or Whatsapp 7794 3975 for more information
Important Note: Rates subject to change. Please check with the hotel before you confirm your reservation.
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