What to Do When You’ve Overindulged

Avoiding overcelebration on St. Patrick’s Day is more a matter of preparation and self-control that something you can remedy after the fact, says Global News. If you woke up this morning feeling more than little “green” from St. Patrick’s Day, know that most so-called hangover “cures” either won’t work or can exacerbate the situation. Over-the-counter analgesics can be hard on the liver, but antacids can help soothe a sour stomach. Mild, digestible carbs such as toast, crackers or pretzels can help on the day after, alongside plenty of replacement fluids such as water or tea. The only proven remedies are rest and time, however. #StPatricksDay

Imbibe Safely on St. Patrick’s Day

If you plan to indulge in a prolonged #pub crawl or toast on St. Patrick’s Day, do so wisely: Start with a meal that’s rich in carbs and protein, Bon Appetit says. For example, a corned beef hash or a classic #Irish breakfast with, sausage, eggs, beans and tea will protect a sensitive stomach and slow the absorption of alcohol. Take a multivitamin to head off nutrient depletion, and match any Guinesses consumed ounce-for-ounce with still water to maintain hydration. Don’t be afraid to fuel up with snacks as the day wears on, or just bow out when you know you’ve had enough — and never mix drinking and driving. Slainte! #StPatricksDay

Find Some Green Garb for St. Patrick’s Day

Planning to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and short on green gear? Make tracks to a local thrift store that’s supplied by your generous donations to ClothingDonations.org. There, you’ll find all manner of Kelly-green garb, and if you shop early, seasonal decorations that suggest Irishness such as artificial shamrock garlands. Any day is a good day to #donate, of course; lightly used clothing, small appliances and other household goods of all colors and sizes are welcomed throughout the year as part of a free #donation #pickup. #Donations are tax-deductible, too, so schedule yours today! #StPatricksDay

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day Over the Centuries

The Feast of St. Patrick has been celebrated on March 17 since the ninth or 10th century, according to History.com, in recognition of the patron saint who brought Christianity to the Erin Isle and — legend has it — rid it of snakes. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in what is now Florida (!) in 1601. Only recently has it grown into an excuse to #celebrate all things #Irish with a pint of Guiness or green beer, however; it remained a religious holiday in its home country until the 1970s. Today, huge parades are held annually in New York City, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Savannah, Ga., and many other locations worldwide. #StPatricksDay

Where the Luck of the Irish Doesn’t Apply

If you plan to hoist a pint of Guinness in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, don’t count on the luck of the Irish to get you home safely. Don’t drink and drive, allow friends to get behind the wheel after toasting or ride in a car whose driver has overindulged. If you’re out on the town, instead designate a sober driver or have an alternate plan before you begin celebrating; most towns now have ride-share services that can take you home safely. And if you’re hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party, serve plenty of snacks and nonalcoholic beverages as well as green beer, and ensure everyone imbibing has a safe ride home.