Life

9 Ways To Celebrate St. Patrick's Day If You're Stuck In The Office On March 17

There may still be snow on the ground in some parts of the country, but that won't stop Americans from celebrating St. Patrick's Day. No matter the weather, Irish and non-Irishmen alike will wander the streets on March 17 in search of parades, pubs, and parties. Sounds like the dream day, right?

And for many of us, that’s all it will be — a dream. This year, much to our dismay, St. Patrick's Day falls on a Tuesday. So unless you're a college student or plan on calling in sick on St. Patrick's Day, you will be celebrating the holiday with your co-workers instead of inebriated strangers. You'll be forced to watch the festivities from your window, while answering a slew of texts from drunk friends who are wondering "where U R."

But don't throw in the green towel yet folks. Although you can't show up to work drunk or spend the day kissing everyone who's wearing green, you can still celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. With a little creativity, you can participate in all the holiday's traditions without leaving your cubicle. Whether you want to focus on the food, fashion, or both, here are some easy ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day when you're stuck in the office from 9 to 5.

Image: Sébastien Barré/Flickr

by Leah Rocketto

Start The Morning With A Green Sip

Although St. Patrick’s Day centers around booze, we wouldn’t recommend downing a brew before work. Trade the traditional pint for a delicious (and dare we say, healthier) green smoothie. Any blend of veggies and fruits will pair perfectly with a piece of Irish soda bread.

Image: Meal Makeover Moms/Flickr

Don The Holiday's Hues

If you show up to the office without a stitch of green, you run the risk of getting pinched. To avoid looking like a leprechaun, follow a few of these St. Paddy’s Day styling tips.

Image: Julie/Flickr

Paint Your Cubicle Green

Not literally, of course. But by hanging some streamers and a few beads, you’ll make your work space look like a float in the St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Image: Sam T/Flickr

Chow Down On Corned Beef

It may not be traditional Irish fare, but corned beef is a St. Patrick’s Day staple. Slice it into your pasta or onto a roll for a delicious, festive lunch.

Image: Half Baked Harvest

Jam Out To A St. Paddy's Playlist

Screaming drunks aren’t the only sound associated with this holiday. If bagpipes and Celtic crooners aren’t your cup of tea, try listening to some alternative St. Paddy’s tunes.

Image: Andreas Levers/Flickr

Flaunt Some Fabulous Nails

Use your lunch break to give your nails the St. Patrick’s Day treatment. Whether it’s a coat of green polish or a more elaborate manicure, this is a simple way to show your spirit.

Image: Maegan Tintari/Flickr

Snack On Something Sweet

If you’re going to indulge in an afternoon sugar fix, you might as well make it a festive one. A St. Patrick’s Day dessert is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and win over your co-workers.

Image: Christi Johnstone/Flickr

Spread A Little Luck

Everyone can use some extra luck, especially when you’re stuck inside on St. Patrick’s Day. Since you won’t be able to find enough four leaf clovers to go around, make your own using some scissors and construction paper.

Image: Umberto Salvagnin/Flickr

Say Cheers

After working all day, you deserve a little libation. Once the clock strikes 5 o’clock, pour yourself a shot, or bite into a whiskey-filled treat.

Image: Kirti Poddar /Flickr

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