St. Patrick's Day is important for many reasons. Irish people across the nation are preparing for March 17 with great anticipation. Perhaps, you're a college student and are also looking forward to this great day to drink beer with friends—if you're of age—and sport all shades of green and gold. The following are the 8 best things about St. Patrick's Day.

1. The parade

Call anyone who appreciates a good time and go to the St. Patrick's Day Parade! Although the parade is held the weekend before the actual holiday, that does not stop anyone from sporting their favorite set of ridiculous glasses or bow ties—I'm also guilty.

2. Green everything

Green beer, green food, green clothes, green accessories and I could go on for days. Forget "50 Shades of Grey," St. Patrick's day is the day for 50 shades of green!

3. Outrageous outfits

What is better than being at the parade and spotting all of the ridiculous outfits and accessories? You can really tell who is Irish at the parade and who is there to support the holiday. But it doesn't matter if you're Irish, celebrate by dressing in your best outfit or costume!

4. Corned beef and cabbage

Corned beef and cabbage is our weakness. I'm sure most Irish people look forward to that amazingly delicious home cooked meal, it's like another Thanksgiving to me! Green soda, soda bread, corned beef and cabbage and Irish potatoes—what else do you need?

5. Irish pride

St. Patrick's Day, otherwise known as "feast day," is the day to celebrate the life of Saint Patrick who lived during the 1600s.

6. Beer, beer and more beer

Aside from eating food and honoring St. Patrick, beer is the next most important thing about this holiday. Not to validate any stereotypes but I must say, we do like our beer. I will sip my green beer this St. Patricks Day with a little more pride this year.

7. Dollar store decorations

Cheap and neat decorations are one of my favorite things about holidays. You can afford to get new decorations each year and go all out. I'm talking about getting crazy glasses, hats, necklaces—the light up ones are my personal favorite—and face paint!

8. Gold food dye

It's pretty cool that we can change the color of our food with edible paint or dye. Make everything gold this St. Patrick's Day! Get creative and color any food that you think may be a good decoration this St. Patrick's Day!