Saint Patrick’s Day has transformed from a traditional religious feast into a global cultural phenomenon, with cities around the world marking March 17 with parades and green-themed festivities. Celebrants adopt an Irish spirit for the day, often toasting with the word “Craic,” an Irish term for fun and enjoyment.
The holiday is honored by Catholics, Protestants, and Orthodox Christians alike. It is an official public holiday in Ireland, the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the island of Montserrat. Celebrations occur globally, ranging from the historic parades in New York, which date back to 1762, to Vilnius, where the Vilnelė River was dyed green on March 14 to mark the occasion.
NEWSROOM IN notes the history of Saint Patrick, the origins of the holiday’s green traditions, and the customs believed to bring good luck.
5 surprising facts about Saint Patrick’s Day
The holiday has been celebrated since the early 17th century and has accumulated numerous myths over the centuries:
- His name was not Patrick. The patron saint of Ireland was born Maewyn Succat. Born in the 4th century to a wealthy family in Roman Britain, he was kidnapped by pirates at age 16 and sold into slavery in Ireland, where he remained for six years.
- Symbol of the Trinity. The shamrock is the primary symbol of the holiday. Legend holds that Patrick used the three-leaf clover to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—to the Irish people.
- Blue, not green. Until the 18th century, the traditional color associated with Saint Patrick was blue. Green became popular later as a symbol of the “Emerald Isle” and the Irish independence movement.
- Driving out the snakes. While biologists note that post-glacial Ireland never had snakes, legend claims that Patrick drove all serpents into the sea from Mount Croagh. According to the story, he outwitted the oldest, most stubborn snake by tricking it into a box before casting it into the waves.
- The miracle of meat. Because the holiday often falls during Lent, a period of fasting, Irish tradition suggests that Saint Patrick transforms all meat dishes into fish on March 17. This allows the traditional meal of bacon and cabbage or corned beef to be consumed without breaking religious rules.
How to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day on March 17
To observe Saint Patrick’s Day according to tradition, follow these common customs:
- Wear green. Don green clothing or pin a shamrock to your lapel. Other traditional symbols include the harp, which appears on the Irish coat of arms, the shillelagh walking stick, or leprechaun-themed accessories.
- Dance a ceilidh. These are traditional Irish social dances. The word “ceilidh” originally referred to a social gathering or party involving music and dancing.
- Enjoy a drink. The church traditionally eases Lenten restrictions on alcohol for the day. While whiskey was the historical choice for toasting the saint, the widespread consumption of stout and ale became a standard part of the celebration in more recent history. A pint of dark ale remains a modern staple of the holiday.
