Like so many of us here at MCI, you are probably going out tonight for St Patrick’s Day celebrations. If you are not from the UK or the USA, you may be wondering where St Patrick’s came from.
Well, St. Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious holiday that is celebrated on March 17th every year. It is a day to commemorate the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. He was said to have brought Christianity to the Irish people in the 5th century AD.
The history behind St. Patrick’s Day dates back to the early 17th century when the Catholic Church declared March 17th as a holiday to recognize St. Patrick. However, it wasn’t until the late 18th century that the celebrations began to extend beyond Ireland and into North America.
Traditionally, St. Patrick’s Day has been a day of feasting and drinking, with corned beef and cabbage being a common meal served. The day is also known for wearing green, a symbol of Irish heritage and tradition.
In addition to the traditional celebrations, there are parades held throughout Ireland and other parts of the world to mark the occasion. The largest parade in the United States is held in New York City, where over two million people gather to watch the procession.
Another popular tradition is the drinking of green beer, a tradition that started in the early 20th century in the United States. Today, breweries all over the world create special brews for the holiday.
Despite its popularity, St. Patrick’s Day has recently received criticism for its heavy drinking culture. Many organizations and cities have taken steps to address this issue by promoting safe alcohol consumption and offering alternative activities for families and children. Perhaps it is time for a return to the feasting traditions of old. In any event, who can resist wholesome Irish traditional food? We love it all!
Have a very happy St Patrick’s Day and a lovely weekend, everyone!