Every March 17, people around the world wear green, watch parades, and celebrate Irish culture. Behind the shamrocks, leprechauns, and festive traditions is a fascinating story that began more than 1500 years ago!
Starting in the 5th Century
Patrick was kidnapped from his birthplace in Roman Britain at the age of 16. He was taken to Ireland as a slave and spent six years there before escaping.
Years later, Patrick returned to Ireland as a missionary and played a crucial role in converting the Irish people to Christianity. Today, Patrick is considered the patron saint of Ireland. His death is believed to have taken place on March 17 which is why Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on this date.
Fact: The name “Patrick” is derived from the Latin Patricius which is the name he adopted when ordained as a priest and later bishop.
Bishop:
A high ranking ordained member of the Christian clergy, typically acting as an “overseer” responsible for supervising multiple congregations within a specific geographical region known as a diocese.
Initially, Saint Patrick’s Day was a solemn religious occasion with time set aside for church services and contemplation. Today, however, it is a major public festival celebrated around the world. Cities such as Dublin, New York, Chicago, and Boston celebrate with parades and many Irish themed activities.
Fact: Chicago greatly celebrates Saint Patrick’s Day by dying the chicago river green. The tradition started back in 1962. It successfully attracts thousands of spectators till this day.
Traditional Irish Dishes
Traditional Irish dishes often served during these celebrations include corned beef and cabbage, soda bread, and Irish stew.
Delicious corned beef and cabbage: Soda bread by Amanda Biddle: Irish stew–credit: Parker Feierbach
Why Do People Wear Green on Saint Patrick’s Day?
The tradition of wearing green ties back to Ireland’s nickname, “Emerald Isle” as well as the green in its national flag. According to folkcore, wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns who are said to pinch anyone they can see.
Ladies wearing green in the 253rd annual St.Patrick’s Day Parade in New York, March 17, 2014 — ZUMA PRESS
The Iconic Symbol of Saint Patrick’s Day
The shamrock is closely associated with Saint Patrick. According to tradition, he used the three-leafed plant to explain the Christian concept of Holy Trinity.
Today, this holiday has become a fun way to celebrate history, culture, and Irish pride. Although Saint Patrick’s Day began as a religious holiday, it has grown into a global celebration honoring Irish culture.
Fun fact: 
Saint Patrick’s Day is often celebrated more widely outside of Ireland than within the country itself. Cities in the United States with large Irish-American populations such as New York and Boston tend to celebrate the holiday on a very large scale.
DON’T GET PINCHED! 👀
