7 of the Most Popular St. Patrick’s Day Traditions
St. Patrick's Day, the day of the year where everyone claims to be a wee bit Irish, has a rich and fascinating history. This holiday is celebrated annually on March 17th and is loved by people all around the world. But where did this day come from? What are the origins of this holiday, and what are some of the most fun traditions associated with it? The luck of the Irish must be with you because I have all of the answers for you.
Origins of St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick's Day has its roots in Ireland, where it is considered a national holiday. The day is named after Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Saint Patrick was a Christian missionary who spent his life spreading Christianity throughout Ireland. According to legend, he used the shamrock, a three-leafed plant, to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish people.
The first St. Patrick's Day parade was held in New York City in 1762, organized by Irish soldiers serving in the British army. However, the holiday didn't become a public holiday in Ireland until 1903. Today, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated all around the world by people of Irish descent, as well as those who simply love Irish culture.
Fun Traditions of St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick's Day is a holiday that is celebrated with fun, food, and lots of green. Here are some of the most popular traditions associated with St. Patrick's Day:
Wearing Green
On St. Patrick's Day, it is customary to wear green clothing or accessories. This tradition is said to bring good luck and is thought to have originated in Ireland, where green is the color of the shamrock. It is also believed that wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns, mischievous little creatures from Irish folklore.
2. Parades
St. Patrick's Day parades are a common tradition in many cities around the world. The largest parade is held in New York City, where more than two million people line the streets to watch the parade. The parade features floats, marching bands, and Irish dancers, and is a celebration of Irish culture.
3. Drinking
Drinking has become a popular tradition on St. Patrick's Day, particularly in the United States. Many people celebrate the day by drinking green beer or other Irish-themed drinks. The holiday has become associated with alcohol, but it is important to celebrate responsibly. That means you.
4. Eating Irish Food
Traditional Irish foods, such as corned beef and cabbage, shepherd's pie, and Irish soda bread, are often served on St. Patrick's Day. Many people also enjoy eating green foods, such as green cupcakes and green pancakes.
5. Shamrocks
The shamrock is a symbol of Ireland and is often associated with St. Patrick's Day. Legend has it that Saint Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish people. Many people wear shamrocks on St. Patrick's Day as a symbol of their Irish heritage.
6. Leprechauns
Leprechauns are mythical creatures from Irish folklore that are often associated with St. Patrick's Day. They are said to be mischievous little men who hide their pots of gold at the end of rainbows. Many people dress up as leprechauns on St. Patrick's Day and participate in parades and other festivities.
7. Greening of the Chicago River
One of the most unique traditions associated with St. Patrick's Day is the greening of the Chicago River. Every year, the Chicago River is dyed green in honor of the holiday. The tradition started in 1962, when a group of plumbers used green dye to track illegal sewage discharges into the river.
Guess what? I made a video about this too. Check it out here. And if you are really lucky, you might see a leprechaun…