Call it the Luck O’ the Irish, or just my inherent affinity for Irish pubs, but St. Patty’s Day is one of my favorite holidays. So today I share with you the top five reasons to love St. Patrick’s Day AND my top five Irish watering holes in New York City.

Why You Should Love St. Patrick’s Day too.
1. No Gifts: One of the few holidays that won’t stress you out standing in long lines to buy that sweater vest you know will be returned.
2. No Family Obligations: Finally, a holiday that doesn’t require you to hang with weird uncle Ned.
3. Parades: Who doesn’t love a good bead-throwing, bagpipe-playing extravaganza?

4. Green flair: So maybe you don’t own blinking Shamrock necklaces and paint your face orange, white and green, but it sure is fun looking at those people.
5. Bangers & mash: So what if it’s a heart attack on a plate? It’s St. Patty’s Day, you’re allowed.

A Jolly Good Time…

I live on the Upper East Side, the Mecca of Irish Pubs. Here’s a few that you should swing by.
1. Brady’s: A true neighborhood bar. No frills, just great drinks, great friends and great times.
2. East End Tavern: They have a $12 brunch that includes a drink, and you can drink FREE on your birthday. Sign me up.
3. Kinsale Tavern: My old roommate described this place as a great place for a cheap burger. He was right. It also earned a spot on Zagat’s “Sports Bar” Tops’ list.
4. Pig ‘N’ Whistle: Crazy name for a crazy pub. Always a raucous good time.
5. Pat O’Brien’s: Sing-along music and a center bar that reminds me of the show “Cheers” always attracts a lively crowd here.