A St. Patrick's Day Party Preview

L.A. WeeklyCulture

St. Patrick's Day parade in San Francisco, California.; Credit: Joseph Schell">Perhaps because Mardi Gras has recently put people in the novelty necklace spiritPerhaps because Mardi Gras has recently put people in the novelty necklace spirit, St. Patrick's Day often involves green plastic beads, as seen at the St. Patrick's Day parade in San Francisco, California.; Credit: Joseph Schell

Traditionally, St. Patrick's Day honors the Patron Saint of Ireland, and the spread of Christianity to the island. But the holiday is more broadly celebrated in America, where after a few Guinnesses, anyone can be Irish. For a holiday that recognizes the unique culture of Ireland, there certainly are a lot of American tropes thrown into the revelry. In case you can't remember your last few St. Patrick's Days, here's what to expect.

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