It is spring break time in the mountains and you don’t really need an excuse for parting but on St. Patrick’s Day you can definitely elevate the fun to the next level. The following are a few suggestions on how to fit in on Irish day in the mountains.
Don’t go on the mountain without the proper attire
If you live or often visit a Vail you know a good costume wardrobe is a must. You need your PinkVail tutu, your Easter pastels, a proper Closing day outfit, a Christmas ski costume and of course the St. Patty’s greens. A leprechaun inspires outfits are the best choice; green hats, sports coats, anything with shamrocks and lots of green beads will also do. The most adventurous of the party skies usually leave their ski clothes behind and go out on the mountain in shorts, t-shirts and lots of shamrock-painted skin.
Go green for après-ski
Many bars in town offer the St. Patty’s special green beer. In Lionshead usually Bart and Yetis has the green brew and in Vail Village you can check some of the après spot like the Altitude Bar & Grill, the George or Vendetta’s. Another very Irish drink that you might see on the bar menu on March the 17th is the Irish Car Bomb. This is a mixture of Bailey’s and Jameson’s in a shot glass, which is dropped dramatically into a glass of Guinness. The taste comes second to the experience with this cocktail but it is all about keeping the party Irish spirit.
Don’t miss on the Irish feast
Irish cuisine is not particularly popular in Vail but on St. Patrick’s day you get the special treat to enjoy a festive Irish specials offered by some of the best restaurant in town. Most of the restaurant will have a sign or add in the local newspaper with details on their St. Patrick’s day menus. Expect to see chiefs interpretations of the traditional Corned Beef Brisket with potatoes and cabbage, Irish beef stew or even some of the original Irish soda bread.
