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This Irish holiday is celebrated every year in the United States on March 17 as a non-official holiday. Schools, bank, government offices, and stores remain open. In Ireland, where it originated, it’s an official holiday. Canada, New Zealand, and any country that has a large Irish population also celebrates this day. Pictures below show important vocabulary related to St. Patrick’s Day.
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St. Patrick promoted Christianity throughout Ireland in the fifth century when it was not a popular religion. He built churches and converted many pagans to his religion. He was given the title of "Saint" because it was believed he performed many miracles. (A person becomes a saint when he or she does something that is miraculous). According to one legend, St. Patrick rid Ireland of a snake infestation, which is why his image is often shown with snakes at his feet. (See the snakes around his feet in the picture to the right?)
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| Ireland is an island (land surrounded by water). It lies west of Great Britain. |
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| A three-leaf clover is also called a shamrock. This image often represents Irish culture. |
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A leprechaun is a mythical character (not real). He’s a very small person, and if you catch him, he will lead you to a pot of gold.
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St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in many cities in the U.S. with a big parade. Irish and non-Irish people celebrate, and politicians often walk in it.
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