Some people love Valentines, because it gives them a chance to appreciate the people they love, whilst others don’t, and that’s ok too! So, the question being asked in this article is : Do you prefer having a ‘Valentine's Day’ or ‘Galentine's Day?’

“Um I think a family and friends gathering is better than love stuff” - Onyi 

“GALENTINES DEFOS!!! Im not a big sorta valentines person tbh, don't really get the vibe lol 🤷‍♀️. Hanging w/ my homies is defos something i'd rather be doing” - Ella

“Galentines. It gives more of a fun, cute time to be with friends and just make up an excuse to buy them a gift. The other reason is that you should love and show someone you love them everyday instead of just one day of the year. Main thing I just love gift giving ❤️😂” - Mya

“galentinesss” X - Millie

“Ehh to be honest, I don’t mind any” - Bea

“I think the love stuff is sweet and we should all appreciate our friends” x - Arinade

“Galentines for me absolutely, we don’t need a Valentine for Valentine’s Day!! All you need is your bestest friends and to have a good time!” - Freya

“I think galentines, because i am more appreciative of my friendssss” - Aiza

“Well I am very much the opinion of that : I like valentine's because I like it that people who love each other can express themselves in public without being judged. However, I like the souls of galentines because if you don't have a partner, you can celebrate with friends to still take part. Plus, it shows your friends just how much you love them”  - Julia Szwerc

“The people closest to you know all your stories, that Valentines/Galentines can help you to write” ~ Unknown ❤️

Signed, Caera (S2)

St Patrick’s (or better known to us as ‘St Paddy’s’) falls on the 17th of March this year. Although, do we know who St Patrick really is, and how/why this day is celebrated? Let’s find out!

Who is St Patrick?

St Patrick was born in Roman Britain during the late 4th century, who was sadly kidnapped at 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. However, he had a lucky escape back to the safety of Britain. 

Why Celebrate his Life?

St Patrick made the decision (after his escape) to return to Ireland, in order to become Christian. By the time of his death, aged 78, he had established many Monasteries, Churches, and Schools. Many legends are also said to have happened thanks to him such as : he drove the snakes out of Ireland. Furthermore, Ireland now celebrates him for his heroic achievements/efforts to make life better for himself and his fellow Irish community. 

How Do We Celebrate?

The special day consists of all things connected to Irish Heritage. People like to celebrate with some Irish Jigs, Parades, Music, Dancing, and Drinking. Plus, lots of very special foods : Shepherd’s/Cottage Pie, Colcannon (Irish mashed potatoes), Bread Pudding, and so much more! However, the biggest thing of all is definitely the colour GREEN! All things Green are always much appreciated on St Patrick’s Day, (as we are all probably aware of already). Whether it would be a Green hair piece, a piece of Green clothing, or any accessory really, it’s loved, but why? Ireland’s beautiful landscape made up of mostly Green has to be recognised, plus with the iconic Shamrock being Ireland’s symbol.

I really hope you enjoyed reading and learning all about St Patrick’s Day! Whether you are celebrating or not, why not get involved?

“A best friend is like a four-leaf clover : hard to find, and lucky to have.”

~ St Patrick’s Day (Irish Quote) ☘️

Signed, Caera (S2) 🌈

Easter is a very special holiday for many people around the world. It is a time for joy and celebrating with family and friends. But where did Easter come from and why do we celebrate it?

THE BEGINNING OF EASTER

A long time ago, before Easter was a Christian holiday, people celebrated the arrival of spring with festivals . They were happy because Winter was over and new plants and flowers started to grow. Some believe the name Easter comes from a goddess of spring and new life.

THE EASTER STORY 

For Christians, Easter is the most important holiday. It celebrates the story of Jesus, who was crucified and placed in a tomb. But 3 days later he did something that no human on earth could ever do and that is that he rose from the dead. This is what you call the Resurrection, which saved us from our sins and why Easter is such a happy and loving time for a lot of people. 

EASTER TRADITIONS

Over time , different Easter traditions have developed around the world. There are many great ones but my favourite are:

Easter Eggs - I love to wake up on Easter morning and have chocolate eggs for breakfast , and I think that it is a really good tradition.

The Easter Bunny - the Easter Bunny is a tradition from old European stories about a rabbit that brings eggs to children , and i think it really brings Easter to a whole and makes Easter what it is now.

Church Services - I personally really enjoy going to church and seeing everyone together all celebrating, the main reason that this became a tradition is o celebrating Jesus and his sacrifice for us.

So to bring it all together Easter is a holiday full of meaning, joy and fun traditions whether you go to church or spend time with family or eat chocolate all day, it is a fantastic holiday to have and it will always be a favourite of mines. 

Article by Olivia Magee (S2)