St. Patrick's Day primer

Today, March 17, marks one of the biggest drinking holidays of the year. And, while many of you have already been celebrating for two weeks, I'm sure there are still plenty who want to fit in a little more festivities tonight. So I've come up with a handy primer to help you choose an Irish bar depending on your mood.

If you're feeling...charitable: Today only, Sláinte Irish Pub in Fells Point is donating $1 per every Guinness poured to the American Red Cross to help those affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan and throughout the Pacific. Also, there will be buckets throughout the bar if patrons would like to make additional donations.

If you're feeling...frugal: As it's done so many times in the past, the deal-a-day site Groupon read my mind. Today's deal is $15 for $30 of food and drink at one of my favorites, The Life of Reilly, a quaint Butcher's Hill bar with great Guinness stew and an equally impressive Irish whiskey selection.

If you're feeling...musical: Rigadoo, the long-time house band of J. Patrick's in Locust Point, will go on at 4 p.m. The local Irish folk band has been playing bars in the area for years and J. Patrick's is a nice escape for people who just want to enjoy some authentic Irish tunes.

If you're feeling...ambitious: The Stil in Timounium has an all-day celebration that includes multiple bands on multiple stages (inside and out). The music lasts from 3 p.m. until 1 a.m. and there are progressive price specials on pints, starting at $2 and increasing all day long.

If you're feeling...outdoorsy: So far, it looks like a great day to be outside. Lucky for The Reserve, it's throwing a giant block party. The party will include traditional food and drinks, as well as bag pipers, beer pong, a dunk tank, corn hole, and live music by Pressing Strings and Jah Works. It all kicks off at 11 a.m.

If you're feeling...lucky: Looney's Pub in Canton opened at 6 a.m. this morning and played host to the Mickey, Amelia, and Spiegel Morning Show. Throughout the day, Looney's will be presenting giveaways, including a trip to see Roger Waters in Dublin and U2 here at M&T Bank Stadium.

If you're...ready to dance: Like always, Cat's Eye Pub is featuring live music today, but this time it's for a straight 12 hours (2 p.m.-close). Originally from Ireland, the members of Dogs Among The Bushes add a rock flare to traditional Celtic music. The bar will also feature drinks specials on Jameson and Murphy's, as well as giveaways throughout the day.

And of course there are tons of other Irish bars in the area offering great live music, corned beef specials, and plenty of Guinness throughout the day. Enjoy the holiday and be safe! You don't want to end up like this guy.

[Image: courtesy of The Life of Reilly]