On 17 March, the streets of Ireland and numerous cities worldwide are awash with green, commemorating St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. This holiday, initially a religious observance, has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture, featuring parades, traditional music, dance, and, of course, the consumption of beer.
An intriguing curiosity about St Patrick is that, despite being the patron saint of Ireland, he was not Irish by birth. It is believed he was born in what is now Scotland or Wales in the late 4th century and was taken to Ireland as a teenager. He is famed for using the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish, which is why this plant has become an iconic symbol of the holiday.
Beyond Irish borders, St Patrick’s Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia. In the US, particularly in cities with a strong Irish heritage such as Boston and New York, St Patrick’s Day parades and festivities are major events that draw millions of people. Interestingly, the Chicago River is dyed green each year in honour of this celebration, a practice that has captivated the imagination of locals and tourists alike.
In other parts of the world, the holiday has been adopted with unique local twists. For example, in Japan, celebrations include parades and performances of Irish music and dance, while in Montserrat, a small Caribbean island, St Patrick’s Day is celebrated alongside Emancipation Day, blending Irish and Caribbean cultures into a unique festivity.
In Ireland Experience, we offer our students a total immersion in the culture, history, and customs of Ireland, especially Cork, a wonderful city. Contact us and join this great family.
+34 618 315 727 
+353 83 482 6432 
contacto@ireland-experience.com
