Winter storm Stella knew what she was doing when she kept most of the east coast stuck in doors this week. You might have used the day to reorganize your closet (that Nickelback t-shirt from high school will never be “fashionably ironic”) or try that new crockpot recipe (aka dump any ingredient you have and let it simmer for 4 hours), but we used the time off to gear up for the weekend.

St. Patty’s Day is on a Friday this year (#blessed), but it’s more than just an excuse to consume or wear anything that’s green. It’s the perfect time to get a little creative with your drinks. Whether you’ve got the bar crawl mapped out, or if you’re still figuring out plans, start your weekend out with some of these St. Patty’s cocktails in hand.

1) Irish Flag Drink
Start the night out with a drink that remind us to treasure good ole St. Patrick’s roots. Even if you aren’t Irish, eave that flag y’all. You’ll need 1/3 shot of green creme de menthe, 1/3 liquor 43 and 1/3 shot Irish Creme. Carefully layer the ingredients in a shot glass in order and shoot ’em back.

2) Honeydew-Ginger Martini
Featuring Midori and Ginger Liqueur, this drink may not have a punny St. Patty’s name, but it’s the perfect shade of emerald green. Pour 2 oz. vodka, 1/2 oz. Midori, 1/2 oz. Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur, 1/2 oz. lemon juice and a dash of Angostura bitters in a cocktail shaker filled halfway with ice. Shake until chilled, strain into chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.

3) Spiked Irish Float
This drink isn’t green but it certainly is still Irish in spirit (aren’t we all). It’s a perfect excuse to put ice cream in a drink, so we don’t think anyone will be complaining about the lack of green. In a pint glass, add two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream. Pour Guinness Stout over that then add 2 oz. of Bailey’s Mint Irish Cream. Stick a straw in there and enjoy!

4) Shamrock Shake
It isn’t St. Patrick’s Day without a lil’ shamrock. This boozy shake sounded too good to not include on our list. Combine 4 oz. Irish cream liqueur, 2 oz. Branca Menta, 1 1/2 cups fresh mint leaves and 1 pint good quality vanilla ice cream in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour and serve with whipped cream (fresh is best!) and cherries (classic Shamrock Shake style). Even add a touch of grated dark chocolate. Do it all!

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