Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Qualicum

Saint Patrick's Day
Mar09

Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Qualicum

Blog, Vancouver Island no responses

Where to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Qualicum Beach

Looking to vacation on Vancouver Island? Want to travel BC or enjoy a staycation near the coast? Qualicum Beach or Parksville could be the perfect location for you. With Saint Patrick’s Day around the corner, why not start planning a fun getaway?

Saint Patrick’s Day has long held a reputation for being an excuse to drink and party. Across the Strait of Georgia, you’ll find people doing just that in the heart of downtown Vancouver and neighbouring municipalities. But Vancouver Island moves at a different pace and we think you’ll appreciate doing things our way.

We welcome you to enjoy St. Paddy’s Day our way!

  1. Catch Some Live Music

Better yet, make it live Celtic music or other Irish-inspired tunes. There’s always a musical show or two going on but Vancouver Island has a small claim to fame in the Celtic music circle. Celtic Chaos—a traditional Celtic band that includes fiddle, Irish wooden flute, a pennywhistle, and more—calls Qualicum Beach and Nanaimo their home. You can also look out for other performers, for example, Will Millar (ex-frontman of The Irish Rovers) has been known to play shows on the Island (he did in 2019)!

  1. Make Your Own Green Beer

Breakaway Vacation rentals each have a full-sized kitchen for you to enjoy—so why not use it? Stay in and make your own festive green beer. There are several ways to do this so you can pick the one you like best. Using a light-coloured brew will yield the best results. You can use green food colouring, 4-6 drops should do. There are other ways to achieve a similar effect, like using a green beerzicle in a clear glass bottle or, if you’re brave, try making it using matcha powder!

  1. Watch The Irishman (or another Irish-themed movie)

Been meaning to watch the much-buzzed-about Martin Scorsese movie, The Irishman? Why not dive in on the day meant for celebrating Irish culture? Okay, okay, The Irishman isn’t exactly the pinnacle “Irish movie” (it was filmed in the New York area) but it’s definitely a title on everybody’s lips these days since it’s Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations. Looking for something more traditionally Irish? Try The Hole in the Ground by Lee Cronin or Float Like a Butterfly by Carmel Winters.

  1. Grab a Beer at LoveShack Libations

Open Wednesdays, Saturdays, and by appointment, LoveShack Libations is a must-visit venue for beer drinkers near and far. This microbrewery and pub is a local treasure and the owners have a genuine love of all things beer. They have served Irish beer in the past, like their Who’s Your Paddy Irish red ale, but you should always call ahead to see what they have going on before you set out. Green beer or no green beer, this charming little pub is a must-see on St. Paddy’s Day and beyond.

What are your favourite things to do for St. Paddy’s Day?