Saint Patrick's Day

Saint Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17th every year. It honors Saint Patrick, who is the patron saint of Ireland. The holiday began in Ireland but is now celebrated in many countries. People wear green clothes and decorate with shamrocks. Big cities hold parades with music and dancing.

Who Was Saint Patrick?

Saint Patrick lived more than 1,500 years ago. He was a religious leader in Ireland. People say he used a three-leaf shamrock to teach lessons. The shamrock became a symbol of Ireland. March 17th is the day he is believed to have died.

Celebrations Today

Many cities hold Saint Patrick's Day parades. New York City and Boston have some of the biggest ones. People wear green so they do not get pinched. Irish foods like corned beef and cabbage are popular. In Chicago, the city dyes its river bright green.

Fun Facts

• Chicago has dyed its river green for Saint Patrick's Day since 1962.
• Finding a four-leaf clover is said to bring good luck.
• Blue was actually the first color linked to Saint Patrick, not green.

Did You Know?

The first Saint Patrick's Day parade was held in what is now the United States, not in Ireland.