There’s a common sentiment among the Irish that the beautiful mountains of West Virginia remind them of home. If you look at the geologic history of the Appalachian Mountains, you’ll see why. At some point, the hills of Ireland and the hills of West Virginia were one. Many West Virginians have Irish heritage, and with St. Patrick’s Day coming up on Sunday, March 17, many local businesses in the Greater Parkersburg area are looking to celebrate.

The House of Wines

The House of Wines (HOW) is a French American restaurant located in Marietta, OH, and on Friday, March 15, they’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a special menu and live music by Jesse Forrest. The live music is from 6 to 8 p.m. HOW’s St. Patrick’s specials include Irish Soda Bread, Shepherds Pie, Corned Beef Dinner and Guinness Stout Cake. Call 740-373-0996 to make reservations.

Parkersburg Brewing Company

Parkersburg Brewing Co. is a local brewery in Downtown Parkersburg. On Saturday, March 16, they’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a special menu and live music by Appalachian roots band OYO. Their special menu will start at 4 p.m. and the live music begins at 7 p.m. Call 304-916-1502 during normal business hours to make reservations.

Major Riviera

The Major Riviera operates as a venue for dinners and events. On Saturday, March 16, they’re hosting a special Irish dinner beginning at 6 p.m. Tickets are $26 for adults, $24 for seniors and $16 for children 3-12, this price includes the meal, coffee, tea, water and soda. In addition, a cash bar will also be available throughout the evening. Visit valleygemsternwheeler.com to book a spot.

North Bend State Park Restaurant

The North Bend State Park has a lovely, little restaurant in their lodge that’s hosting a St. Patrick’s Day buffet from Sunday, March 17, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 304-643-2931 to make reservations.

There are plenty of other ways to spend your spring here in the valley. Scots Marketplace just recently restocked their greenhouse with houseplants and flowers. They also launched their March specials at their ice cream shop, Sugar Grove. Stoked Coffee also has several St. Patrick/March-themed specials that are a great pick-me-up for any time of day.

What’s the Deal with St. Patrick’s Day Anyway?

St. Patrick’s Day is a religious and cultural holiday honoring the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. The day was made an official Christian feast day in the early 17th century. The day is observed by several churches, but the holiday also acts as a celebration of Irish culture and heritage. Parades, festivals, gatherings and wearing green and shamrocks are traditional ways to celebrate. Historically, the restrictions of Lent are lifted on St. Patrick’s Day as well, which has encouraged the tradition of alcohol consumption.