Why is St Patrick's Day Celebrated on March 17th ?

St Patrick’s Day is a well-known holiday celebrated around the world. People wear green, attend parades, and enjoy traditional Irish food. But why is it celebrated on March 17th ? This date has a deep historical and religious meaning.

Who Was St. Patrick?

St Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. He was born in the late 4th century or early 5th century in Roman Britain. His real name was likely Maewyn Succat, but he later became known as Patrick.

At the age of 16, Patrick was kidnapped by Irish pirates. They took him to Ireland, where he was forced to work as a shepherd. He spent six years in captivity. During this time, he turned to Christianity for comfort.

One night, Patrick had a dream that told him to escape. He followed the vision and found a ship that took him back to Britain. After returning home, he became a priest and later a bishop. He then had another dream that called him to go back to Ireland to spread Christianity.

Why Is St Patrick’s Day on March 17th?

March 17th is believed to be the day St. Patrick died in the year 461 AD. The Irish people began celebrating this date as a religious feast in his honor. Over time, it became a national holiday in Ireland and later spread to other countries.

How Is St. Patrick’s Day Celebrated?

St Patrick’s Day started as a religious holiday in Ireland. People attended church services to remember the saint’s work. However, over the years, it became a more festive celebration. Here are some ways it is celebrated:

1. Wearing Green

Many people wear green on St Patrick’s Day. This tradition comes from Ireland’s nickname, “The Emerald Isle,” because of its lush green landscapes. Green is also associated with Irish pride and culture.

2. Parades and Festivals

The first St Patrick’s Day parade was not in Ireland. It was in New York City in 1762, organized by Irish soldiers serving in the British army. Today, parades are held worldwide, especially in cities like Dublin, Chicago, and Boston.

3. Shamrocks and Irish Symbols

The shamrock, a three-leafed plant, is a famous symbol of St Patrick’s Day. According to legend, St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) to the Irish people.

Other symbols include the harp (Ireland’s national symbol) and leprechauns, small mythical creatures from Irish folklore.

4. Traditional Irish Food

People enjoy traditional Irish dishes on St Patrick’s Day. Some popular foods include:

- Corned beef and cabbage (popular in the U.S.)

- Irish stew (a dish made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables)

- Soda bread (a type of bread made with baking soda instead of yeast)

5. Dyeing Water Green

One of the most famous traditions is in Chicago, USA. Every year, the city dyes the Chicago River green to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. This tradition started in 1962 and has continued ever since.

How Did St Patrick’s Day Become Popular Worldwide?

Irish immigrants spread the celebration to other countries, especially in the United States, Canada, and Australia. In the 19th and 20th centuries, many Irish people moved to America to escape poverty and famine. They brought their culture and traditions with them.

Today, St. Patrick’s Day is not just for Irish people. Many people, regardless of their background, enjoy celebrating this festive holiday.

Conclusion:

St Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17th because it is the day St. Patrick died. What started as a religious feast in Ireland has now become a global celebration of Irish culture. Whether you are Irish or not, it’s a day to enjoy parades, music, food, and the color green.

So, on March 17th, wear your green clothes, find a shamrock, and enjoy the spirit of St Patrick’s Day!