A common method of expressing 'Happy St. Patrick's Day' in the native Irish tongue is 'Lá fhéile Pádraig sona dhuit!' If you wish to sound as though you're well-versed in Irish culture, however, there are several other phrases and terms associated with the occasion that are worth familiarizing yourself with. Here are a few worth exploring.
Steps to Celebrate
Conveying St. Patrick's Day Wishes
Share the phrase “Lá fhéile Pádraig sona dhuit!” This simple, direct expression is a common way to wish anyone you encounter a happy St. Patrick's Day.
- This phrase translates to “Happy St. Patrick's Day to you!”
- Lá fhéile Pádraig signifies “St. Patrick's Day.' However, it's common for native speakers to shorten this to “Lá ‘le Pádraig” in both this phrase and others. The meaning remains the same, but the latter is often used in everyday speech for a more natural and informal tone.
- Sona means “happy” in English.
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- Pronounce the exclamation as lah leh PAH-drig SUN-uh gwitch.
Extend Wishes with “Lá fhéile Pádraig sona dhaoibh!”
Express “Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig dhuit!” to Individuals
Share “Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig oraibh!” with Groups
Toasting on St. Patrick's Day
Raise a Toast with “Sláinte!”
Propose a Toast with “Sláinte is táinte!”
Exclaim “Éire go Brách!”
Exploring Irish Vocabulary
Inquire, “Where Will You Be Wetting the Shamrock?”
Declare, “Give Me a Kiss, I'm Irish!”
Order a “Pint of Guinness, Please”
Opt for “Whiskey” or “Beer” Instead
Discussing the Shamrock
Understanding “The Luck of the Irish”