In the United States, Saint Patrick’s Day is typically a day of wearing green, getting pinched, and an opportunity for adults to drink; however, all around the world, this holiday has a much deeper meaning and importance. Different forms of celebration ranging from eating special foods, to dancing with friends, and more are practiced throughout March.
Although this holiday is widely known and celebrated, lots of people may still be wondering who the namesake of this holiday (Saint Patrick) is. Saint Patrick was a historical figure from long ago, in the 400s. He was born in Roman Britain, he was later kidnapped at 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He escaped and was credited with bringing Christianity back to his people by explaining the Holy Trinity to people using the shamrock. After Patrick’s death, which is believed to be on March 17th, 461, the beliefs of his life became crucial to Irish culture. Patrick’s death date later became the traditional date for Saint Patrick’s Day.
Saint Patrick’s Day was celebrated to commemorate Saint Patrick and his life, with the first celebration of this holiday believed to be on March 17th, 1601 in what is now St. Augustine, Florida. The holiday later grew into what it is today because of a group of homesick Irish soldiers who marched in New York City in 1772 for Saint Patrick’s Day. What started as a religious memorial in Ireland has now turned into a global celebration of Irish culture.
In Ireland, Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated by listening to traditional music, marching in parades, sporting green attire, and going to bars with friends (for those of age). This is celebrated very similarly in the United States but on a smaller scale. There are not as many parades, and not the same emotional connection to the holiday as Irish people have. Major parades to celebrate the holiday are held in Dublin, Boston, Chicago, and London, featuring bagpipers, dancers, and elaborate floats. It is also a common tradition to wear green, and pinch someone who is not wearing green.
Another popular way to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day is by eating special meals. Colcannon, or Irish mashed potatoes, is commonly eaten as well as Shepherd’s Pie, which is traditionally prepared by baking lamb and topping it with mashed potatoes. Potatoes are a common theme in these dishes, but some meals without potatoes include soda bread, fried cabbage, and corned beef. Foods aren’t the only part of these meals, with traditional drinks including Irish coffee, whiskey, cider, and beer; particularly in pubs, people commonly toast “Slainte!” (To health!) with Guinness or various other beers. In addition, some desserts such as Irish apple tart and soda bread pudding are commonly enjoyed.
Overall, Saint Patrick’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate Irish heritage, get together with friends and family, or pinch anyone not wearing green! So go out this Saint Patrick’s Day and have a fun day of celebration while remembering the late Saint Patrick, who inspired and influenced millions.
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