Family Traditions : St. Patrick’s Day Fun
In the whirlwind of life, finding time for elaborate holiday celebrations can be a challenge. But fear not, fellow parents! I'm here to share some effortless yet enchanting St. Patrick's Day traditions that will sprinkle a little extra magic into your family's day.
St. Paddy’s Day holds a special place in our son's heart, eagerly anticipated each year for one delightful reason: our mischievous Leprechaun friend's annual visit. While some families embrace the Elf on the Shelf tradition, we've crafted our own whimsical twist reserved solely for this festive occasion. And let me tell you, it's a one-day adventure I find infinitely more manageable! (#realtalk)
Embracing Leprechaun Shenanigans:
Try as I may, Alex isn’t into trapping leprechauns. After all, why would he want to catch the prankish little fellow who brings him candy and toys? Instead, our lively leprechaun is free to roam, leaving behind a whimsical trail of greenery and giggles throughout our home. Here's a glimpse of the mischief he causes:
Ever seen green toilet water? Gross, I know, but trust me it’s hilarious to the 5/6/7-year-old set! (Pro tip: For maximum effect, add the dye to the toilet just before your child wakes up. Trust me, it's worth it!)
As if green toilet water wasn't enough, our leprechaun loves to TP the main bathroom.
The bathroom counter becomes a canvas for our leprechaun's creativity, adorned with toothpaste, shaving cream, and maybe even a sprinkle of green glitter for good measure. (Be brave!)
A cryptic message on the bathroom mirror adds to the mystery, with phrases like "ha, ha, ha" or "can't catch me!" written in green dry-erase marker.
Shamrock stickers find their way onto toilet paper rolls, hand towels, door knobs, and maybe even mom’s head.
A trail of green clothing is strewn across the floor from the bathroom to the kitchen, where more surprises await.
Green food coloring transforms milk and pancakes into St. Patrick's Day delights, and mom’s green k-cups are scattered all over the floor.
A trail of gold coins leads to a treasure trove of small toys and candy (and I yell “No! Not more candy!” - ha!)
Tracing the Leprechaun's Trail: A St. Patrick’s Day Adventure!
This year, I decided to sprinkle a little extra magic into our St. Patrick's Day celebrations by adding a twist: a scavenger hunt! Armed with clues in every color of the rainbow, Alex will embark on a colorful journey. Each riddle he deciphers will bring him one step closer to uncovering the leprechaun's secret stash downstairs, waiting at the end of the rainbow.
Feeling inspired to create your own adventure? Don't worry, I've got you covered! Below, you'll find the scavenger hunt I crafted, complete with alternative suggestions for personalization. So, gather your little leprechauns and get ready for an unforgettable quest! Adventure awaits!
Letter from the Leprechuan:
Now that you’re older and have learned how to read, a treasure hunt is what you need.
Explore the house, with glee and cheer, for treasures await, both far and near!
Hunt with luck, and keen eyesight, for magical treats hidden from sight.
Follow the clues, like a rainbow's glow, think like a leprechaun, off you go!
May the luck of the Irish guide your way, as you unravel with fun my mischievous play!
Your friend,
The Leprechaun
The adventure!
Clue 1: To start your quest, where apples reside, open a drawer, your next clue inside. (You can change this to any red object and then change the word “drawer” to where the object is.)
Clue 2: In a cozy spot where you rest your head, search for something orange where comics are read. (You can change “comics” to books or stories, and throw a orange stuffed animal, blanket or pillow on the bed.)
Clue 3: In the room where meals delight, check near the chair bathed in yellow’s might. (You can change the word “chair” to any yellow object.)
Clue 4: Where the stairs meet nature's embrace, a green treasure rests in its rightful place. (Put a plant or shamrock next to anywhere you have stairs in your house.)
Clue 5: In a room where you play the blue nugget reigns, where gamers gather, clues remain. (“Nugget” can be easily sub’d for any other blue object, and “gamer” can be changed to children, family, etc.)
Clue 6: Look for the purple where festive work unfolds, and you’ll finally reach your pot of gold!” (This is pointing to my office, but could also lead to a laundry room, just change it to “where clothes unfold”!)
Whether you're setting traps for leprechauns or embarking on a treasure hunt of your own, may your celebrations be filled with laughter, love, and a touch of Irish magic. Here’s to creating the real happy hours with the ones we hold dear, one shamrock at a time!
