We all know about St. Patricks day. The drinking, the shamrocks and green as far as the eye can see! But why do we observe this festive holiday?
St Patrick is one of Ireland's patron saints and many Americans with Irish ancestry remember him on March 17. Patrick's Day is fixed on March 17, but may occasionally be moved by Catholic Church authorities. This happened in 1940, so that the celebrations would not fall on Palm Sunday, and in 2008 to avoid Holy Monday, the last Monday before Easter Sunday.
St Patrick’s Day is celebrated in many parts of the world, especially by Irish communities and organizations. Many people wear an item of green clothing on the day. Parties featuring Irish food and drinks that are dyed in green food color are part of this celebration. It is a time when children can indulge in sweets and adults can enjoy a “pint” of beer at a local pub. Many restaurants and pubs offer Irish food or drink, which include:
- Irish brown bread.
- Corned beef and cabbage.
- Beef and Guinness pie.
- Irish cream chocolate mousse cake.
- Irish coffee.
- Irish potato champ, also known as poundies, cally or pandy.
- Irish stew.
- Irish potato soup
So enjoy this St. Patty's day history and maybe cook up some traditional Irish dishes like the ones above! Who knows? Maybe a green tradition could be on the way!
