Visiting Butte for St. Patrick’s Day? Here are some simple dos and don’ts.

With St. Patrick's Day falling on a Monday this year, many revelers and guests will be using a sick day and turning the annual celebration in the Mining City into a raucous three-day weekend.  Many people from Butte included.  While Butte loves to play host and nobody loves a good party like the Mining City, there are a few things you should keep in mind if you plan on tearing it up in Butte this St. Patrick's Day.

DO NOT DRIVE IF YOU'VE BEEN DRINKING

This one is a no-brainer and goes for any day of the year, you should never drink and drive on St. Patrick's Day, especially if you're sporting out of town license plates.  Local police and State Troopers know that there's one primary reason why people visit Butte on St. Patrick's Day and if they know you're visiting that is all the reason they need to watch you more closely for violations.  Don't give them that opportunity.  Walk from bar to bar uptown and if you're heading back to your hotel or friend's house, use an uber or a taxi.  You don't want to be included on the March 18th jail roster.

DO NOT OVER IMBIBE

Nobody likes the sloppy drunk stumbling through a crowd but on St. Patrick's Day this could make you the target of thieves or pickpockets who take advantage of careless partiers.  Keep your wits about you and never leave your drink unattended or accept a beverage that has been given to you unless you are absolutely sure of the person who gave it to you.

DO NOT BE A TOUGH GUY

While Butte has a reputation as a rough-and-tumble fighting town, it has mellowed considerably over time but fights still happen.  There are still people who regard fighting as a hobby of sorts and if you are out looking specifically for trouble, you will find it.  Plus, when you get crowds and alcohol together, bad decisions can multiply.  Leave your boxing gloves at home and celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Butte peacefully.

BE RESPECTFUL AND HAVE FUN

As I mentioned before, Butte loves a good party and is a great host but remember to be respectful.  Don't vandalize anything.  Don't litter.  Don't get out of control.  But have fun.  Every place in town will be hopping, there will be music everywhere and plenty of things to do even if you don't drink.  Get Uptown by noon and take in the parade and everything that happens afterwards.  Just remember that basic manners and courtesy will go a long way in a having a great Butte St. Patrick's Day.