Don’t show up empty handed. Call the host and ask if they’d like you to bring anything. A bottle of wine. A case of beer. Maybe a tray of brownies or your favorite appetizer. Although a host might say they don’t need anything – it’s always nice to show up with something.
If you are planning on bringing “uninvited guests” to the party, call ahead and let the host know. They’ll appreciate the call and will plan accordingly.
Although the tradition of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Southie is parade-goers drinking from sun up til sundown, try not to let the drinking get out of hand. Nobody wants a Tipsy Tina or Drunky Brewster taking center stage at the family’s open house.
Help clean-up. If you see empty cups or plates, help your host by picking them up and getting rid of them properly.
Thank your host. They were kind enough to open their home to you – make sure to thank them and say good-bye. You can always write a proper thank you and mail it too.
When the party inside spills outside:
Be respectful of the neighbors. It seems like everybody loves a parade on St. Pat’s Day in Southie, but by dusk some people are just plain sick of a parade. Remember to keep the volume down if a neighbor asks.
If you are smoking out front on the stoop, please dispose of your cigarette butts properly.
Do not litter on the streets.
Do not pee on someone’s house, car, plant, pet…somebody somewhere must have a bathroom you can use.
Have fun! It’s a day to celebrate but it doesn’t need to turn into a day of debauchery and mayhem.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
