Valentine’s Day, the 4thof July, Halloween…who doesn’t love these days? They’re all festive holidays that pretty much anyone and everyone can celebrate and embrace. Valentines Day brings Cupid, romance and love to mind. Halloween, or “All Hallows Eve” enables us to disguise ourselves, hide behind a mask and escape reality for a night with some free candy. And of course, the 4thof July, when we come together as a country to celebrate our patriotism with the red, white and blue, and appreciate our freedom while enjoying fireworks under the moonlight. Another holiday is just around the corner, but maybe not as clear of its actual meaning? This is St. Patrick’s Day. What does it really mean, and how did it become an American celebration?
Yes, believe it or not there is more meaning behind March 17ththan just being Irish for the night. Most would say that St. Patrick’s Day means wearing Kelly green, saying “Kiss Me I’m Irish” (whether they are or not) and celebrating with friends, at where else, but an Irish Pub.
If you couldn’t tell from my name (Molly Noonan), yes I am 100% Irish. If you ask my friends they’ll tell you I’m just about as Irish as they come, fair skin, blue eyes and all. I’ve done countless reels and jigs to Drop Kick Murphy’s (only my fellow dancers can relate!) for any audience, anywhere, whether it was a family party or a crowded restaurant, especially during the month of March. St. Patrick’s Day is pretty much my favorite day of the year. Coming from the family that I do this day means more to me than just wearing green. It’s about being proud to be Irish and spreading that joy.
St. Patrick’s Day was created in honor the patron saint of Ireland and it is in celebration of St. Patrick bringing Christianity to Ireland. Now mostly overlooked, St. Patrick’s Day was celebrated in Ireland as a religious holiday. In Ireland a typical St. Patrick’s Day started with church and then many celebrations and festivals that would carry well into the next day.
According to the History Channel website, St. Patrick’s Day was first celebrated in America in Boston in the late
1700’s and since then, its been here to stay. More and more people have begun to enjoy listening the authentic Irish music, having a good time in a sea of green, but the parades, which are basically one big party, are the best. The carefree, easy-going, “lets have some fun” Irish attitude applies to all on this joy-filled March day.
So whether you’re as Irish as I am, or like the rest of the world just love to celebrate it, make sure to be festive! If you don’t already have that Irish shirt that you wear every year, don’t worry you can look cute too! It’s the perfect time to get a nice bright green dress or top! Springtime is just around the corner and its time to bring out some color! For the luck of the Irish, just stick some four-leaf clover stickers on your cheek!
And here’s a little Irish blessing to leave you with, “For each petal on the Shamrock, this brings a wish your way -?Good health, good luck, and happiness, for today and every day.” – Unknown.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day everyone!