St. Patrick's Day in Ireland

History: St. Patrick's Day, held on March 17th, commemorates St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Although it began as a religious feast day in the 17th century, it has evolved into a variety of festivals across the globe celebrating Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing, and a whole lot of green.

Traditions:

• Wearing Green: People dress in green to honor Ireland, also known as the "Emerald Isle," and to represent Irish folklore that wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns.
• Parades: Large parades are held in cities and towns across Ireland; Dublin hosts the largest parade which draws hundreds of thousands of spectators.
• Shamrock: The shamrock is one of the most recognizable symbols of St. Patrick’s Day; according to legend, St. Patrick used it as a metaphor for the Holy Trinity when Christianizing Ireland.
• Religious Observance: For some, attending mass or services is an important part of honoring the day.

Activities:

• Music and Dance: Traditional Irish music sessions and dancing take place throughout pubs and public spaces.
• Public Festivities: Fairs, concerts, and outdoor performances featuring Irish artists contribute to a celebratory atmosphere.
• Food & Drink: Traditional Irish food like corned beef and cabbage is served; while drinking—especially enjoying Guinness or Irish whiskey—is a common indulgence on this day.

On St. Patrick's Day in Ireland, both locals and visitors alike embrace the culture and heritage of the Irish people through various events and activities planned across the country.