Slainte! St. Patrick’s Day falls on Wednesday of this week, so I’ve put together a playlist to help celebrate one of my favorite minor holidays.

St. Patty’s Day 2020 was essentially cancelled last year due to the Covid pandemic, so I would be remiss to not make special note of it in 2021. While the pandemic is not over, the end is nigh. More and more people receive vaccinations every day, and it before long it will be available for the general public nationally. So while we still have a substantial period of social distance, mask wearing, and hygienic vigilance ahead of us, there is light at the end of the tunnel. That’s something to celebrate.

St. Patrick’s Day began as a Catholic day of veneration for St. Patrick. The historical St. Patrick had a large hand in converting the Irish to Christianity, supposedly drove all snakes from the island, and is now their patron saint. The holiday took on a different significance in America; Irish Americans used the occasion to celebrate Irish culture more broadly and show pride in their heritage. Nowadays March 17 is more of a secular party day, in which everyone wears green (or gets pinched!), chugs beer, and goes to parades.

Yet it holds a special place in my heart. I remember as a little kid hunting for leprechauns in the tall grass, determined to win their pot of gold. When I was older I learned that I am part Scots-Irish, so developed genuine interest in Gaelic art, history, and music. Today that personal appreciation compliments the many fond memories I’ve formed with friends over the years on the auspicious date. Every year, even if I don’t do anything big and wild, I make sure that by the end of the day I pour a cold Guinness, put on some Irish music, and enjoy a moment of reverie.

Irish music forms a big part of the island’s culture at large. As a consequence, it’s also had a big influence on American culture at large – a wee island with a massive impact. I’ve pulled a few of my favorite renditions of classic folk ditties and drinking songs, along with examples of modern musicians who incorporate elements of the tradition into their sound and lyrics. There’s also included examples of choice native-Irish artists that connect the mainstream to the misty past. Yes, I know that there’s a couple references to Scotland through St. Andrew (the patron saint of Scotland and victory) and Caledonia (the Roman name for Scotland). While St. Patty’s Day is most certainly not about the Scottish, these specific songs seem to draw more generally from all of Celtic culture and fit the overall vibe of the party in my mind. Sorry if that offends anybody. (Also keep in mind the broader mingling of the cultures in Ulster!)

Like any good yarn, the full playlist is ordered for maximum effect and stands at almost 4 hours. Listen to it in over the next few days to get in the mood. Or play it throughout your day on Wednesday to stay in the spirit of things. Better yet, use it as the soundtrack to a responsible gathering of friends and family. That’s what’s it’s all about. Erin go Bragh!