March 17th is a nationally celebrated holiday that, at least in theory, marks the emergence of spring. In honor of Saint Patrick’s Day, we are delving a little into the unusual etymology of Hollywood before releasing you to the green festivities. Nestled in the heart of the so-called Wicklow Gap in the eastern parts of Ireland is Hollywood, a charming village that has hosted its fair share of movie directors and A-list actors looking for green pastures.

One theory points to the lush holly trees strewn throughout the town while another refers to Saint Kevin, after whose 6th-century pilgrimage the village was dubbed Holy Wood. Especially in a city filled with terrific pubs, everyone can be Irish for a day in West Hollywood. Dress your friends in green garments and take your factoid downtown for an afternoon of colored beer and a parade that’s as excited as you are.