History of St. Patrick's Day!!

Every year the world celebrates St. Patrick's Day and many are not even aware of the history behind this national holiday. Saint Patrick was born in Roman Britain and lived throughout the 5th century. He is a patron saint and the national apostle of Ireland. At the age of 16, Patrick was kidnapped and sold into slavery in Ireland. During his six years as a slave, he worked as a herdsman until he escaped back to his country. Patrick devoted his life to spreading Christianity and practiced religion among all his followers. 

St. Patrick’s Day is commemorated in many different adaptations around the world. While it's unclear how far back St. Patrick's Day traditions date,  records show a St. Patrick’s day parade was held in St. Augustine, Florida on March 17th 1601.  Today more than 100 St. Patrick's Day parades occur across the country. The most famous is the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade and is the world’s largest in the country. Over 3 million people attend the event to watch the 1.5 mile parade route. Not only is St. Patrick's Day hugely celebrated in the United States but in other countries such as Japan, Singapore, and Russia. Families around the world make corned beef and cabbage and Irish soda bread for dinner to honor the traditions kept alive for centuries. 

There are many symbols that represent St. Patrick’s Day but the most prominent figure is a leprechaun. In some folktales and stories, leprechauns are grumpy little elves responsible for repairing the shoes of other fairies. Today, many recognize the mischievous little leprechaun has a gold stealing troublemaker.