According to reports, United States President Barrack Obama will get a very cultural experience this upcoming St Patrick’s Day.

Obama has reportedly invited Ireland’s Prime Minister, Brian Cowen, to the White House to celebrate the popular Irish holiday on Wednesday, March 17. Also in attendance at the White House on March 17 will be Peter Robinson, who is the First Minister or Northern Ireland, and Martin McGuiness, who is the Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister.

According to the official press release, President Obama would like to show his appreciation to the Irish political leaders after they reached an important agreement that will lead to further peace on the European island. The press release further stated that the United States and Ireland share deep cultural ties and an overall commitment to make positive changes in the world. Obama also shared his appreciation towards the Taoiseach and the UK Prime Minister, Gordon Brown.

While St Patrick’s Day in the United State is largely a day full of binge drinking, it is a national holiday in Ireland and in Northern Ireland. In those countries the day is an annual “feast day” and is a day of significant importance to Catholics in both countries.