Saint Patrick’s Day is a national holiday in Ireland but is also widely celebrated (though not a public holiday) throughout the United States. Americans of Irish heritage make up one of the largest population groups in the country. On March 17, supermarkets, shops, and Irish pubs are adorned with green decorations to honor Irish culture.
The holiday was originally established to celebrate Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick. The celebration occurs during Lent when Catholics traditionally abstain from drinking alcohol or eating meat. However, these restrictions were typically lifted for St. Patrick’s Day, providing an opportunity for festive feasting and the consumption of corned beef and alcohol. The holiday’s religious roots are still evident in the shamrock—a green, three-leafed plant—which Saint Patrick is said to have used to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish.
Today, “St. Paddy’s Day” is primarily a celebration of Irish culture and national pride around the world. Before Irish independence, green symbolized Irish patriots and republicans advocating for separation from the United Kingdom. In the United States, green is a central element of the festivities. This is perhaps most famously seen in Chicago, where the Chicago River is dyed green for the occasion. On a more personal level, tradition holds that failing to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day may subject you to a playful pinch.
So, on March 17, enjoy a pint of Guinness and a slice of corned beef in celebration of Irish culture. And don’t forget to wear something green!