20 Years ago, I was still in shorts - but I reckon in hindsight - the parades I used to enjoy then were inspired
by the American example, as AM says. Since I've allegedly grown up, I've never enjoyed Paddies Day too much - what your friend
describes as NUTS is probably the frenzied boozing - it's a lot like New Years Eve - people feel obliged by law to
have a good time - and end up trying far too hard. My recent memories (all Dublin) are of streets sticky with cider and can spillage
from the 'knacker' drinkers (open air drinkers - usually fairly young), bars like the Black Hole of Calcutta and impromptu bouts in
all weight categories from about mid-afternoon on.. under the WBBO (World Boozed-up Boxing Organisation)
Recently too, there are a lot of tourists that travel over for the few days around PD - more and more English since the troubles wound down
along with the traditional contingents of Americans participating in the parade. (Not complaining about this aspect, the more the merrier...)
Dublin's Corporation (City Hall) have been trying to make it into more of a 'Festival' type event in the last 5 years or so
- a policy which, I think has worked well, but you still have all the baggage, as outlined..
Sorry to throw out a few of the standard stereotypes - but it's one time of the year when they ring true.
Having spent a very sober and very domesticated Paddies Day in France, this year, however, the Dublin option starts to look a
slight bit more attractive, all the same...