Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated every year on March 17th. It is observed on the feast day of St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland, on his death day. However, even though it is a religious holiday, many people do not celebrate it as such. It is celebrated all over the world and is a big deal in Ireland.
It’s more about drinking and celebrating Irish heritage and just having fun. And even if you aren’t Irish, everyone is Irish on Saint Patrick’s Day!
Here are the top 5 Saint Patrick’s Day traditions most people observe.
The Parade
Many cities around the world host a Saint Patrick’s Day Parade that has many people celebrating their heritage. Filled with Irish dancing, marching bands, floats, and more, the parade is a tradition and will continue to be for years to come. The first parade was in the 1760s to show strength in numbers for the Irish Catholic immigrants facing discrimination in America.
Irish Potatoes
Do you remember making Irish Potatoes in school and then bringing them home for your families? Irish Potatoes are a tradition that started in Philadelphia over a century ago. They are cinnamon-coated, coconut cream spheres that are sold in grocery stores, candy stores, or could be homemade. There is also an option for people who do not like coconut.
Wearing Green and Dressing Up
Because of four-leaf clovers and the Irish flag, many people opt to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day. Along with the color green, sometimes those who celebrate wear leprechaun hats, shamrock glasses, boas, etc. If they are attending a parade or going out drinking, most people will wear more elaborate outfits.
Irish Dancing
One of the biggest things you will see in the St. Patrick’s Day parade is Irish dancing. Girls and boys will participate and is made up of a number of styles and traditions, developed form the French and English. There are special types of shoes that are worn that resemble tap shoes and ballet slippers. You can take classes if you are interested in learning.
Drinking
One big stereotype of the Irish is that they love to drink, and people use that stereotype on St. Patrick’s Day as an excuse to party hard. The most popular drink that day is probably beer (green beer if you’re feeling fancy), Irish Whiskey, and Irish cream. Some people may get fancy and create their own drinks. Just be careful and smart if you do go out drinking.
Do you have any St. Patrick’s Day traditions we didn’t mention? Tweet us at @TopFiveMust.
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