It’s nearly that time of year again. Thursday, March 17 is none other than St. Patrick’s Day. The national day of Ireland is celebrated in communities across the globe, and Beijing is no exception.
That’s reached out to Mathieu, the owner of Paddy O’Shea’s Irish pub. The French expat has seen plenty of changes at Paddy’s having been a customer for almost 12 years, a shareholder for eight years and owner for five years.
Something he perhaps didn’t envisage was having to close the venue on… you guessed it, St. Patrick’s Day. Celebrations during 2020 and 2021 were cancelled due to COVID-19.
“We decided to close our doors, fearing issues with the authorities. No one told us not to open; it was solely our decision,” Mathieu stresses.
That’s not the case this year.
“This year, unless a catastrophe occurs, we will not be closed.”
Aside from Thursday, March 17, celebrations will continue until Sunday of the same week. Friday marks ‘St. Patrick’s Day 2: The Revenge’ (an extension of the previous night’s celebrations), Saturday will see the ‘Leprecons’ in the house, and Sunday will see a spot of traditional Irish music.
Image via Paddy O'Shea's
Mathieu also took the chance to express his excitement about future events at Paddy’s.
“Just like our patrons, we cannot wait for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in November. It’s an unusual time of year (for the soccer World Cup), but the time difference is OK-ish and the magic of the World Cup will be at Paddy’s.”
If you’re heading to Paddy O’Shea’s or any other St. Patrick’s Day parties, remember to comply with anti-epidemic measures such as by scanning the Beijing Health Kit upon entry into a venue etc.
Otherwise, stay safe and have a happy St. Patrick’s Day!
[Cover image via Dianping/Paddy O'Shea's]
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