Saint Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious celebration that happens annually on 17 March to mark the death date of the most commonly-recognized patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. It is also a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Newfoundland and Labrador and Montserrat. Keep reading for more facts about St. Patty’s Day.
Some common St. Patrick Day Facts
- St. Patrick’s Day has become a popular holiday in the United States. People wear green and eat corned beef and cabbage.
- It is also believed St. Patrick drove all the snakes out of Ireland. However, post-glacial Ireland never actually had snakes. Many believe that the term “snakes” referred to the serpent symbolism of the Druids of that time and place. Today, there are no snakes to be found!
- Most people, whether they are Irish or not, wear green on this day. One of the Irish traditions is to pinch anyone who is not wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day.
- St. Patrick’s Day has become a holiday all around the world and for one day out of the year anyone can be Irish and join in the celebration.