The green month of March has now come and gone.

March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, is always a fun holiday that brings people together and gives them something to look forward to each year.

Around Harford County, there were many ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Local shops and restaurants embraced the holiday spirit, offering festive decorations, special menus, and themed treats.

Shops all along Main Street were all decorated with St. Patrick’s Day green and accessories, making it easy for visitors to find something to wear on the holiday.

Many local businesses even offered holiday-themed specials to add to the festive cheer. Some restaurants featured traditional Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and soda bread, giving people a taste of Irish culture. Bakeries also joined in, selling shamrock-shaped cookies, green cupcakes, and other festive treats.

Rita’s in Bel Air offered a new Shamrock ice flavor that was very popular among customers. McDonald’s offered a Shamrock Shake. Chick-fil-A had a hand-spun milkshake that had a mint chocolate cookies and cream flavor.

Senior Taylor Pate shared, “I went shopping with my mom one weekend on Main Street, and all the shops had St. Patrick’s Day stuff. All the restaurants had decorations to celebrate, too. It was nice to see my community all celebrating one thing together.”

Everyone spends their St. Patrick’s Day weekend differently. Some go out and immerse themselves in the festivities, while others choose to stay home and treat it like any other day.

History teacher Joe Scheide said, “This year for St. Patrick’s Day, I spent it with family and friends.”

Not only did the broader community celebrate, but JC students also got into the holiday spirit.

The SGA handed out candy to students as they walked in, giving them a sweet start to their day.