One of the most popular events in Athens is Green Beer Day, a tradition that celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with green beer, parties, and great green vibes. This event draws tons of visitors every year and is a favorite among students and locals alike.
In this article, we will dive into the history of Green Beer Day, what to expect during the event, and how to celebrate responsibly. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor to Athens or a seasoned veteran of Green Beer Day, this guide has everything you need to know.
History of Green Beer Day
The origins of Green Beer Day can be traced back to the 1950s when a group of students at Ohio’s archrival – Miami University –decided to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by adding green food coloring to their beer. The idea quickly caught on, and soon, the entire town was celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with green beer.
Of course, Ohio refused to be one-upped in its party habits – coopted the celebration for themselves. So as a result, OU celebrates Green Beer Day every single year.
“If there’s one thing Miami got right, it’s Green Beer Day. If they want to dress in OU colors and vomit into uptown urinals at 5:30 in the morning, who are we to stop them? We can’t help it if everyone’s catching green fever. Green Beer Day is like the college equivalent of a 24-hour, beer-induced Freudian slip, and the message is clear: OU rules. Miami sucks,” reads a Post editorial from 2009.
Over the years, Green Beer Day has become a beloved tradition in Athens, with students and locals eagerly anticipating the event each year. Today, the festivities typically take place on the Wednesday before spring break, making it the perfect way to kick off a week of fun and relaxation.
What to Expect on Green Beer Day
Green Beer Day is a day-long celebration that takes place in bars and restaurants throughout Athens. Most of the festivities start early in the morning, with many bars opening as early as 10 am to serve green beer to eager patrons.
As the day progresses, the crowds get bigger, and the parties get louder. You can expect to see people dressed in green, shamrocks and leprechauns, and lots of beer. Many bars and restaurants offer drink specials and live/Irish music, making it a festive atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
The green beer is flowing (into pitchers) at the CI! pic.twitter.com/zi1z04SP3L
— The Post (@ThePost) March 8, 2023
Celebrating Responsibly
While Green Beer Day is a fun and festive event, it’s important to celebrate responsibly. The last thing you want is for the festivities to turn into a disaster. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you celebrate:
- Pace Yourself: Green Beer Day is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself throughout the day, and make sure you’re drinking plenty of water in between beers.
- Know Your Limits: Everyone has different tolerances for alcohol. Know your limits and stick to them. It’s better to have a good time without getting too drunk than to end up sick or in trouble.
- Eat and Stay Hydrated: Make sure you’re eating throughout the day and drinking plenty of water. This will help you stay sober and prevent any potential health issues.
- Have a Designated Driver: If you’re planning to drink, make sure you have a designated driver or a plan for getting home safely. Never drink and drive!
- Look Out for Your Friends: Keep an eye on your friends and make sure they’re not getting too drunk. If someone needs help, don’t hesitate to step in and offer assistance.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you have a fun and safe Green Beer Day.
Where to Celebrate Green Beer Day in Athens
Green Beer Day is celebrated in bars and restaurants throughout Athens, but there are a few places that are particularly popular. Here are a few of the top spots to check out:
- The Crystal: The Crystal is an Athens institution and a must-visit on Green Beer Day. They start serving green beer in the mid-late morning, and the party doesn’t stop until the late hours of the night.
- Courtside: Serving up fresh, hot pizza and tons of other great bar food options – Cside is a must for your Green Beer Day experience. Stop in, fill up on food and order a green beer pitcher to wash it down while enjoying it all on the patio outside.
- Red Brick Tavern: If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, the Red Brick Tavern is the perfect spot. They offer a wide selection of craft beers and a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying the festivities.
- Jackie O’s Brewery: Jackie O’s Brewery is a local favorite, known for their delicious craft beer and friendly atmosphere. They typically offer drink specials and great music on Green Beer Day, making it a good spot to check out.
No matter where you choose to celebrate, you’re sure to have a great time on Green Beer Day.
Overall, Green Beer Day is a beloved tradition in Athens and a favorite among students and locals alike. With its festive atmosphere, drink specials, and live music, it’s a celebration that’s hard to resist.
However, it’s important to remember to celebrate responsibly. By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that you have a fun and safe Green Beer Day. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor to Athens or a seasoned veteran of the event, be sure to enjoy the festivities responsibly and have a great time!