Why do we wear a shamrock and see Leprechauns everywhere on St. Patrick’s Day? What are the origins, traditions and history of Saint Patrick’s Day which takes place every year on March 17?
Maewyn Succat, better known as Saint Patrick, was born in 387 in an English or Scottish village. After having spent part of his life introducing the Christian religion to the Irish, he retired to Northern Ireland where he died on March 17, 461. But what exactly are we celebrating? March 17, St. Patrick’s Day ? What are the traditions of this irish party ? Here’s what you need to know about St. Patrick’s Day:
What is the date of Saint Patrick’s Day?
This year, Saint Patrick’s Day takes place this Friday, March 17, 2023. Each year, this Christian holiday celebrates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. March 17 has also been a public holiday in Ireland since 1903. Moreover, when St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Sunday, the public holiday is moved to Monday, to allow Irish citizens to still enjoy this public holiday.
What is the origin of Saint Patrick’s Day?
Saint Patrick’s Day is credited with the evangelization of Ireland. Indeed, during a sermon at the rock of Cashel, he would have explained the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish through a shamrock. Hence the fact that the shamrock has become the symbol of Ireland.
What is the history of Saint Patrick’s Day?
In Ireland, Saint Patrick is the founder of Christianity. In the 4th century, after being kidnapped by pirates, he was sold as a slave in Ireland. Saint Patrick then became a shepherd, then a priest.
Why is the clover the symbol of Saint Patrick’s Day?
To explain to the Irish that the God of Christians exists in 3 forms (The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit), St. Patrick would have used the shamrock. The whole clover represented God and each leaf, one of his forms. Other plants were used to explain the same thing as the strawberry leaf.
On the occasion of St. Patrick’s Day, children can participate in the celebration. Certainly, beer will not be in the spotlight, but why not color clovers, or make a Leprechauns hat? here are some Ideas for activities to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with children:
What are the traditions of Saint Patrick’s Day?
- Every year, the Irish put a shamrock in their buttonhole to remember the religious teaching of Saint Patrick.
- Many Irish also wear on this day a Leprechaun hat (small creatures born from Irish folklore, dressed in green and wearing a cobbler’s apron) or/and green clothes (color attributed to Ireland).
- Music, dancing and beer (Irish) accompany this festive day.
- Saint Patrick’s Day is also an occasion for the Irish to celebrate the arrival of spring.