Family Traditions : St. Patrick’s Day Fun
Life is busy, and sometimes holidays sneak up on us. But don’t worry—I’ve got some easy, fun St. Patrick’s Day traditions that will add a little extra magic to your day without a lot of effort!
St. Paddy’s Day is a big deal in our house, mostly because Alex can’t wait for our mischievous Leprechaun’s annual visit—a tradition I want to hold onto for as long as he believes! Childhood is fleeting, and if a little leprechaun mischief keeps the magic alive, you better believe I’m all in. Seeing his excitement each year makes cleaning up tiny green footprints and whatever else our leprechaun gets into totally worth it!
Let the Leprechaun Shenanigans Begin!
No matter how hard I try, Alex has zero interest in trapping leprechauns. I mean, why would he want to catch the little prankster who brings him candy and toys? Instead, our mischievous visitor gets free rein, leaving behind a trail of green chaos and giggles. Here’s a peek at the mess—I mean, magic—he creates:
Ever seen green toilet water? Gross, I know, but trust me, it’s hilarious to kids! (Pro tip: For maximum effect, add the dye right before your child wakes up.)
As if that wasn't enough, our leprechaun also loves to TP Alex’s bathroom.
The bathroom counter becomes his canvas, decorated with toothpaste, shaving cream, and maybe even a sprinkle of green glitter (be brave!).
A cryptic message appears on the bathroom mirror with phrases like "ha, ha, ha" or "can’t catch me!" written in green dry-erase marker.
Shamrock stickers end up everywhere—on toilet paper rolls, hand towels, door knobs, and maybe even mom’s head.
A trail of green clothes leads from the bathroom to the kitchen, where more surprises are waiting.
Green food coloring transforms milk and pancakes into St. Patrick’s Day delights, and mom’s green K-cups are scattered across the floor.
Finally, a trail of gold coins leads to a stash of small toys and candy (and I yell, “No! Not more candy!”—ha!).
Tracing the Leprechaun's Trail: A St. Patrick’s Day Adventure!
Last year, I decided to add a little extra magic to our St. Patrick’s Day with a twist: a scavenger hunt! Armed with clues in every color of the rainbow, Alex embarked on a colorful adventure. Each riddle he solved brought him one step closer to uncovering the leprechaun’s secret stash waiting for him 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!
