How to Have a Family and Friends St. Patrick's Day Party at Home

Each year my husband and I start early trying to find a babysitter so that we can celebrate our "Irishness" on St. Patrick's Day. But I have found that finding a sitter on this day is almost as hard as finding one for New Year's Eve. Don't get me wrong, I love doing family events, but every couple needs a night out.

To solve this problem, I started having a St. Patrick's Day party at home. We get to enjoy the company of each other, our children, friends and other family members. How can the one of the most celebrated "party" days of the year turn into a family and friends celebration event at your house?

Make your own invitations, purchase pre-made, Create and Print from Bluemountain.com or use Evites.com to electronically send your invitations.

Set the mood: download or purchase a CD of Irish Pub Songs You can purchase on Amazon.com a CD with 20-50 favorite Irish pub songs to keep the mood going through the night.

Decorate: Green is the color, be sure to use it. Shamrock is the "shape". Gold is always acceptable. You can use balloons (but please refrain if you have infants and toddlers attending), streamers, garlands, beads, mobiles or votive candle holders. Your candy holder can double as decoration; fill small black pots with gold chocolate coins or other candy in gold wrappers. If you like, have leprechaun hats or green and gold beads available for your guests.

Paper Goods; Paper plates, napkins, cups, be sure to have plenty on hand in either an Irish motif or solid green. To add a little variety use two or three different greens and gold, or purchase solid color plates and cups, but add designer napkins.

Children's Activities: