Saint Patrick’s Day: Why Do We Celebrate It?

Rylie Rosier

Rylie Rosier and Emma Eskesen getting ready to decorate their apartment for St. Patrick's Day. Photo by Emma Eskesen

While St. Patrick’s Day originated in Ireland, countries all around the world celebrate Saint Patrick's day, a holiday dedicated to Irish culture.

The United States especially has taken this holiday and made it into a festive time of year. Chicago dyes its river green and New York holds some o fthe biggest celebrations in the country.

“In fact, it was among Irish American communities that the day became the celebration it is...”  Claims Deepti Hajela in her article for AP News.

Still, very few people realize the significance this holiday has for Irish cultures. St. Patrick’s Day has been celebrated for over 1,000 years and is observed by the Irish as a religious holiday. 

Saint Patrick was born in Great Britain but found faith while being held prisoner by Irish raiders. After he escaped these raiders, he returned to Ireland as a missionary. He did not introduce Christianity to the Irish, but he helped it become a much larger presence in Ireland. He died March 17, 461 AD, and that day later became St. Patrick’s Day.

While this does not seem very important for a country halfway across the world, this holiday became very important for Irish immigrants. It was a way to fit in with a new country and show that America is their home as well. Saint Patricks Day is a reminder of their heritage and belonging wherever they may be.