Saint Patrick's Day is sometimes a holiday that falls by the wayside on the actual day it's meant to be celebrated. After the big bar crawl in Charlotte, the actual day of the holiday is forgotten about and our minds are on to Easter. However, this is a big mistake, especially for anyone in the University area (or if you live in Virginia or West Virginia). The best spot to hang out at for the real Saint Patrick's Day party is Macado's, conveniently located right across the street from UNC Charlotte!

This year, like every year, Macado's will be serving green draft beer to keep the Saint Patty's day spirit. What says leprechaun like a frothy green mustache? Come grab a Guinness and a tall green and white shamrock hat for only $8.95 and let's get the party started. What's even better than leprechaun hats and green draft beer? Light up shamrock glasses, especially if they are complimentary with a reasonably priced, yet expertly mixed drink. The seasonal Melon Margarita is served in a 21 ounce green light up glass. Don't worry though, if you are a little late to the party and those are all gone, Macado's will still have holiday themed glass pints and an endless supply of beer and Jameson.

Another reason that this local bar and restaurant is a must for Saint Patrick's Day is because of the authentic Irish recipes it serves up, but only for a limited time. The seasonal menu is already in effect (so you can sample some of your favorites in advance), but it will end the day after Saint Patty's day. Try the homemade cabbage, potatoes au gratin and delicious corned beef. This special menu also features fish and chips, and the famous Muldune's Chicken and Broccoli Au Gratin, which is basically a heavenly combination of grilled chicken, broccoli and cheese, and au gratin potatoes. Who could turn that down?

Even if all the festive Saint Patrick's Day specials aren't enough for you, the party atmosphere that night definitely will be. Thursday nights are one of the busiest times at Macado's already, but the atmosphere will be even more fun than usual on Saint Patrick's Day. Karaoke, party favors, and even a bit of Irish music will spice up the normal thursday night. The bar area will be pretty full, so come early if you can. The restaurant area will be open just as late, too. So grab a friend or two and come sing some karaoke while you sample the seasonal menu, and if you end up embarrassing yourself singing after a few too many "pot of gold" shots, no one will probably remember it the next day anyway.