Who Was St. Patrick?
St. Patrick, known as the “Apostle of Ireland,” was an Irish patron saint, who actually started out in a pagan religion. At some point in his life he was captured in Wales, Scotland, then taken to Ireland as a slave. He escaped, became a Christian, and went back to Ireland for mission work.
St. Patrick used the green three-leafed shamrock to illustrate the Holy Trinity. The wearing of the green and the shamrock are still a tradition for this Irish celebration.
Why Do We Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?
In America, St. Patrick’s Day was first organized by the Charitable Irish Society of Boston in 1737. It started as a feast and religious service, then later evolved into the festivities and parades that we know today. Many events feature Irish food, especially corned beef.
Ireland is One of the Most Musical Countries in the World
In Ireland you can’t walk three blocks anywhere without hearing music. St. Patrick’s Day has become an annual celebration of Irish culture. When it comes to music, nothing outside the legacy of black Americans matches the legacy of the Irish. We love to hear Danny Boy any time of year.
Why Do We Pinch Those Who Don’t Wear Green?
It has nothing to do with Ireland, and Irish people think Americans are crazy for the pinching and the heavy celebrating. Some say it started in Boston in the early 1700’s. They believed that wearing green made you invisible to the Leprechauns, who pinched anyone they could see. The pinching reminds you to watch out for the Leprechauns. Some other speculations: Pinching gives you a bruise so you can have some green on you. You get pinched as a reminder to wear green. Do you have an idea why we pinch those who don’t wear green?
Have Fun on St. Patrick’s Day.
No matter what the reason for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, have fun and sing!