When most people think of St. Patrick’s Day, they think about the holiday that has a leprechaun mascot. However, the holiday goes much deeper than finding gold at the end of a rainbow. The holiday stemmed from the patron saint of Ireland; St. Patrick born in Roman Britain.
He was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He was able to escape and returned a few years later to convert the Irish to Christianity. He built many schools, churches and monasteries during his time in Ireland.
His death date of March 17, 461, is now known as St. Patrick’s Day. The Irish celebrated his religious services through feasts. Those of Irish descent who emigrated to the United States made the holiday well known and those of higher power threw the most lavish celebrations (commonly parades.)
Since the holiday was used to celebrate all things Irish, people of all descents started wearing green to show their participation in celebrating the holiday.
In today’s times we also wear green due to the old folklore myth that leprechauns can’t see you in green. If you don’t wear green, they will pinch you just for fun.
“If you do not wear green, I will pinch you alongside the leprechaun. Nobody is safe,” junior Hudson Macneal claimed.
Additionally, the reason people associate shamrocks with St. Patrick’s Day is due to the belief that St. Patrick explained the Holy Trinity using the leaves of a shamrock. Shamrocks are known for being lucky so they may play a part in people’s experience throughout the day.
For example, sophomore Sarah Bowers stated, “I love St. Patrick’s Day because some of the best unexpected things happen to me that day. It truly is a day filled with hidden luck.”
Furthermore, the growth of the holiday began with Irish patriotism in America throughout societies called “Irish Aid” that held parades which featured instruments like drums and bagpipes.
All around the United States there are parades held for this special holiday, like the one held in Manhattan, which has been reoccurring annually since 1762. It is usually around 1.8 miles and lasts over five hours. It is one of the biggest and most well-known parades to occur on St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day is a day filled with many things to celebrate and look forward to, whether it be a parade or a feast. While you celebrate do not forget to wear green and remember the contributions St. Patrick made through his religious services. Most importantly, have fun!
