Did you know that St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland, was actually British? St. Patrick, originally named Maewyn Succat, was kidnapped at 16 and was enslaved in Ireland. He later escaped but felt he was called to return and serve. He became a priest, then traveled back to introduce the Irish people to Christianity.

It is said that St. Patrick made the connection of the Holy Trinity to the three-leafed clover, saying each leaf is one part of the Trinity, but they make up one clover which represents God.

St. Patrick’s Day was first introduced in the United States in 1762 when homesick Irish soldiers marched through New York City to honor St. Patrick. The holiday now celebrates all things Irish and is celebrated worldwide. Chicago, IL is known for dyeing the Chicago River green, Pittsburgh, PA draws hundreds of thousands to the city for their parade, and Savannah, GA is considered the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the south.

Worldwide you can find countries from Japan to Australia to Rio de Janeiro to Great Britain that all celebrate St Patrick’s Day. Dublin, Ireland hosts a multi-day festival that includes parades, musical performances, and cultural activities.

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17. This is the day St. Patrick is said to have died. Although St. Patrick’s Day is known for the color green, parades, and leprechauns, it was originally a feast day celebrated by Christians, where their Lenten obligations were waived, allowing them to celebrate with drinks and great feasts.