Saint Patrick's Day
People celebrate Saint Patrick's Day on March 17 to honor the Patron Saint of Ireland, St. Patrick.
He played a significant role in introducing and celebrating the Irish culture across the world. It is not a national holiday, so schools and holidays work per normal working hours.
Born in 4th Century Britain, Saint Patrick was kidnapped at 16 and taken to Ireland.
After seeking refuge in France and undergoing Christian indoctrination, St. Patrick returned to Ireland in 432 with the mission of converting the population to Christianity.
During his time there, he built numerous monasteries, churches, and schools to spread his beliefs.
The Origin Of Saint Patrick's Day Celebrations In America
In the 18th century, Irish emigrants brought Saint Patrick's Day traditions and celebrations to the USA, making it one of the most celebrated days in America.
The first celebrations of Saint Patrick's Day in America date back to 1737 in Boston, followed by the celebrations in New York in 1762.
With time, the celebrations got bigger and the places with most Irish-American residents left no stone unturned to commemorate this day.
There was a significant rise in Irish Patriotism seen in America. Irish Aid Societies were formed to celebrate the Irish Culture in the country by organizing parades and several other events.
Traditions Of Saint Patrick's Day
The most notable tradition that has lasted over the years, with many others, is the tradition of wearing “green”. According to this tradition, people have to wear at least one item of green clothing.
The traditional Saint Patrick's Day food of America is corned beef and cabbage. It is believed that corned beef originated in America during the 19th century as Irish immigrants replaced bacon with corned beef.
This is because corned beef was a cheap substitute for bacon, and they paired it with cabbage simply because it was a cheaper vegetable.
Drinking is a huge part of the celebrations. People all across the country visit pubs and bars to celebrate with others.
Pubs, bars, and restaurants often host parties with special offers to celebrate the day, incorporating traditional decorations such as shamrocks, snakes, and leprechauns.
What Legends Say About Saint Patrick
Legend has it that Saint Patrick repelled snakes from Ireland, with some suggesting this may symbolize his efforts to rid the country of pagans and non-believers.
It is also said that he used the shamrock as a way to symbolize the Holy Trinity. Hence, the shamrock became the symbol of this day.
Intriguing Insights About Saint Patrick's Day
- The river in Chicago is being dyed green since 1962 to mark the day.
- The oldest Saint Patrick's Day Parade known to the world was organized by New York Irish Aid societies who joined forces in 1848 to make it happen.
- It is also the biggest parade in the USA with over 150,000 participants and 3 million spectators.
- The parade lasts for five hours.
- If someone doesn't wear the traditional color, i.e., green, other people are allowed to pinch that person.
