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St. Patrick's Day is an Irish religious holiday, celebrated annually on March 17. The holiday is in celebration of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland and its national apostle. The holiday is celebrated in many places around the world, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, Japan, and Russia.
Who was Saint Patrick?
Saint Patrick lived during the fifth century, and he was not even Irish! Born in Roman Britain, he was kidnapped and brought to Ireland as a slave at the young age of 16. Eventually, he escaped from slavery before returning to Ireland and being credited with bringing Christianity to its people, along with driving all of the snakes out of Ireland. Research suggests that there were never snakes in Ireland, but we can still believe the myth that made him the patron saint.
Why are Shamrocks Important?
By now you have probably heard of shamrock shakes at McDonald's, or have seen the leprechaun on a box of Lucky Charms cereal containing shamrock-shaped marshmallows. The shamrock is important to St. Patrick's day because it is said that Saint Patrick used it to explain to the Irish the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).
How is St. Patrick's Day Celebrated?
St. Patrick's day falls during the Christian season of Lent, and on this day the restrictions of meat consumption are lifted while people feasted. There are dances and music, and here in America, we have parades/carnivals. The people in Chicago, Illinois even dye the river green!
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