St. Patrick is generally regarded as the patron saint of Ireland. It began as an official feast day of the Catholics but has over the years become a secular celebration of the Irish’ culture – celebrated on the 14th March. Celebrated mainly by the Irish it has also become a popular party and festival time for everyone. A sign in the Guinness museum reads “Everyone’s Irish on March 17th’.

Over the years the colour green and shamrocks have become associated with Saint Patrick’s Day. grew. He is said to have used the shamrock, a three-leaved plant, to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish, and the wearing and display of has become a feature of the day.

St. Patrick’s Day is a party day and gift giving as promotional items is an effective way to draw attention to a brand – especially if the gift is well branded. Coloured or packaged in green the gift will take on a recognisable format immediately.

Gifts that corporates may want to consider in clued all things traditionally Irish – for instance:

• CDs with traditional Irish music, Mp3 and Mp4 units that have been pre-recorded with Irish tunes and, to be more outstanding, a message from the gift giver.
• Emerald green T-shirts, jackets, socks and other apparel make for excellent promotional give away.
• Costume jewellery, key rings and flash sticks brand excellently and are not expensive.
• As it is party time, consider offering your clients hip flasks, cooler bags, bottle openers, wine sets and evening for the more dramatic ‘thank you’ gift a wine cooler filled with Guinness.

Don’t forget to introduce the 4 leaf clover and a leprechaun or two into the designs.