Why St Patrick’s Day?

With St Patrick's Day right around the corner. We thought we'd share some of our research into this fun holiday!

Why March 17^th?
Theory one: This was the day that St. Patrick died. Since the holiday began in Ireland, it is believed that as the Irish spread out around the world, they took with them their history and celebrations. The biggest observance of all is, of course, in Ireland. With the exception of restaurants and pubs, almost all businesses close on March 17^th.

Theory two: In the 1798 rebellion, to make a political statement, Irish soldiers wore full green uniforms on March 17^th in hopes of catching public attention.^[12]
  
Which do you believe?

Why Green?
Originally, the color associated with Saint Patrick was blue. Over the years the color green and its association with Saint Patrick's Day grew.^[12] Green ribbons and shamrocks were worn in celebration of St Patrick's Day as early as the 17th century. In American cities with a large Irish population, St. Patrick's Day is a very big deal. Big cities and small towns alike celebrate with parades, "wearing of the green," music and songs, Irish food and drink, and activities for kids such as crafts, coloring and games. Some communities even go so far as to dye rivers or streams green!"

Before the St Patrick's Day Parade in Chicago they dye the river green! According to the AP, "about 100 pounds (of dye) was used the first year. The river stayed green for a week. The second year it was cut to 50 pounds and the river was green for three days. They decided to use 25 pounds and that did the job for a day."

 

Why a Shamrock? According to legend, St Patrick used the 3-leaved green shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the people of Ireland. This green symbol of St Patrick's Day should not be confused with the "Four Leaf Clover".

Why Celebrate? Why not? It's a great opportunity to enjoy the holiday with a break from everyday activities. Here are a few ideas.

• Make shamrock shaped sugar cookies. Frost the cookies with green icing and green sugar sprinkles!
• Eat "traditional" Irish food… Beer and spirits are not the only great "foods" to come out of Ireland. Corned beef, cabbage and lamb stew are tasty ways to "keep it real." Potatoes are about as Irish as you can get and are one of the staples of the Irish diet.
• Go to your local St. Patrick's Day Parade.
• Wear something GREEN!
• If you're in the West Chester Area and you like to run, there's a road race to keep your feet moving this holiday weekend. http://bringinghopehome.org/stpats5k2013