A non-alcoholic St. Patrick’s Day: Is it possible?

Because of its origin as a one-day respite from Catholic Lent, St. Patrick's Day has acquired the stigma of a raucous celebration centered around liberal libations. So what does someone do if they can't, won't or don't want to drink?

The following options all offer pleasantly sober alternatives to our most inebriated of American holidays.

1. Go Outside - Fortunately for my liver, Colorado Springs has always had an abundance of fun outdoor adventures. Seemingly in spite of the lamest bar scene of any town this size in the world, the area surrounding our culturally-starved town offers some of the best steep-mountain wilderness in the country.

There are literally thousands of destinations, but try to find a southern-facing or lower elevation area for this time of year. Waldo Canyon faces south, as does Ute Valley Park and much of Garden of the Gods. Palmer Park, Pulpit Rock Park and University Park are my favorite winter hikes, and all are close to UCCS.

2. Eat Loads - Life without liquor does not mean life without food. St. Patrick's Day is not only traditionally a vacation day from the liquor-less qualities of Lent, but it also provides an exemption from Lent's dietary restrictions. Most bars and restaurants will feature Irish food on St. Patrick's Day, so just eat your way happy for once. Your drinking friends will appreciate a designated driver and will probably, if properly asked, pay for your food.

3. Watch an Irish Movie - My favorite Irish movie is "Darby O'Gill and the Little People," a Disney movie from 1959 which was Sean Connery's film debut. This classic can be described as featuring an evil Irish Willy Wonka. Instead of following the good boy through an apparently bad castle, we follow the bad father through the tricky leprechaun castle. The film is literally teeming with Irish folklore and trippy special effects, as Darby is tricked into the leprechaun King Brian's lair, tricks his way out and finally captures the king. If Disney doesn't do the trick, there's always "The Boondock Saints," the sequel to which comes out soon on DVD. Or , if you're simply in the mood for accents, "Snatch."

4. Stay In - Nobody says you have to go anywhere on St. Patty's Day, so maybe stay home and save some cash. Included is a student friendly version of the Irish classic, corned beef and cabbage.