March 17 is celebrated in Ireland as one of the most important holidays – St Patrick’s Day. St Patrick is the patron saint in Ireland, and although this holiday is connected with the Irish history and culture, this holiday is celebrated all over the world.
Shamrock is probably the first association most people have with the St Patrick’s Day. In ancient Ireland it was a sacred plant because it symbolized the rebirth of spring. In modern days, it is worn on coats as the symbol of Ireland and Irish descent, and some Irishmen wear it as the symbol of the Holy Trinity. People in Ireland tend to end the St Patrick’s Day by “drowning the shamrock” – placing the shamrock in a glass of whiskey before drinking it.
Another thing most people connect with St Patrick’s Day is green color, which is the symbol of Ireland. People around the world wear green on this day in order to show their Irish heritage, whereas in Ireland itself it is not that common. Although green is the color of Ireland, the color that was associated with St Patrick himself was actually blue.
One of the traditions which are popular around the world (especially in the USA) is drinking green beer on St Patrick’s Day. However, in Ireland it is not something people generally do, even though you can find some pubs where green beer is served.
St Patrick’s Day parades are popular in the USA and they have been held since 1762. However, the first such parade in Ireland had not been held until 1931, and in 1995 the Government of Ireland decided to turn the annual St Patrick’s Day parade into a 5-day festival, in order to boost tourism. Unlike people of other countries that celebrate this holiday, Irish people visit church on St Patrick’s Day.
Even though St Patrick’s Day is more of a religious holiday in Ireland, it is a festive event with lots of music, dancing and fun. No matter if you are in Ireland or some other country where this day is celebrated, you are certain to have a good time.
