By Garima Johar
March 17, 2026
St. Patrick's Day is much more than putting together a green outfit. It’s also about setting a spread of traditional dishes that are known to bring good luck and prosperity. Why don’t you celebrate with these Irish and American festive staples?
Featuring a cross cut on the top, Irish soda bread is linked by letting the fairies out protecting the household.
Colcannon is a mix of mashed potatoes, cabbage or kale. Some homes hide coins inside the mix to predict fortune and it literally is one of the luckiest dish to have on your spread.
An old Irish rhyme says, "Boxty on the griddle, boxty on the pan; if you can't make boxty, you'll never get a man!" For people seeking a relationship, boxty is considered to be a lucky dish.
The classic Shepherd’s pie is made by layering minced meat and mashed potatoes. For a family gathering, it is a must-have on St. Patrick’s Day.
In American celebrations, the green colour takes centre stage and shamrock cookies are believed to bring good luck.