WHAT IS ST. PATRICK'S DAY?
St. Patrick's Day is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated on March 17th each year, primarily in Ireland, but also in various other parts of the world with significant Irish populations, such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.
Saint Patrick, who lived in the fifth century, is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland and is also associated with driving snakes out of Ireland, although this is likely symbolic rather than literal. Over time, the holiday has evolved into a celebration of Irish culture and heritage, marked by parades, wearing green attire, traditional Irish music and dance, and the consumption of Irish food and drink.
In Ireland, St. Patrick's Day has been observed as a religious holiday for centuries, with restrictions on eating and drinking lifted for the day. However, it has become a more secular celebration in recent times, with festivities that include parades, concerts, and fireworks.
In other parts of the world, particularly in places with large Irish immigrant populations, St. Patrick's Day is often celebrated with enthusiasm, featuring parades, parties, and various cultural events. It has become a symbol of Irish identity and pride, even for those who may not have direct Irish ancestry.
HOW DO WE CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK'S DAY?
St. Patrick's Day, celebrated on March 17th, is a lively and festive occasion in the United States, marked by various traditions and customs.
Here's how it's typically celebrated and what's often taught in schools:
- Parades: Many cities across the U.S., particularly those with large Irish-American populations like Boston, New York, and Chicago, hold St. Patrick's Day parades. These parades often feature elaborate floats, marching bands, bagpipers, dancers, and various community groups.
- Wearing green: One of the most well-known traditions associated with St. Patrick's Day is wearing green clothing or accessories. People often dress entirely in green, including hats, shirts, socks, and even face paint. Those who don't wear green might get "pinched" as a playful tradition.
- Decorations: Homes, businesses, and public spaces are often decorated with shamrocks, leprechauns, pots of gold, and other symbols associated with Ireland and St. Patrick's Day.
- Irish food and drink: Traditional Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage, Irish soda bread, and shepherd's pie are popular menu items for St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Many people also enjoy Irish beverages such as Guinness stout or Irish whiskey.
- Celebratory events: In addition to parades, St. Patrick's Day is often celebrated with parties, concerts, pub crawls, and other special events. These gatherings typically involve music, dancing, and lots of revelry.
As for what is taught in schools about St. Patrick's Day, it varies depending on the grade level and curriculum.
Here are some common topics covered:
- Historical background: Students may learn about the life of St. Patrick, who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century and is the patron saint of Ireland.
- Cultural significance: Teachers may discuss the cultural significance of St. Patrick's Day in Ireland and how it has evolved over time, both in Ireland and among Irish immigrants in the United States.
- Irish heritage: St. Patrick's Day provides an opportunity for students to learn about Irish culture, history, language, music, dance, and other aspects of Irish heritage.
- Symbols and traditions: Students may learn about the symbolism associated with St. Patrick's Day, such as the shamrock (which St. Patrick is said to have used to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity) and the leprechaun (a mischievous fairy from Irish folklore).
Overall, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated in the U.S. as a fun and festive occasion that honors Irish culture and heritage. In schools, it's an opportunity to learn about the history, traditions, and significance of the holiday. Check out my St. Patrick's Day Unit: Fun Craftivities & Interdisciplinary Resources. This no-prep, easy to use unit will be a hit with your class.
How do you celebrate St. Patrick's Day?
Visit my Facebook page, Elly Elementary. Look for my St. Patrick;'s Day post and leave a comment.
Feel free to email me at Elly713@ellyelementary.com.
Comments ()