HAPPY ST. PATRICKS DAY
2015
What is St. Patricks Day?
"St. Patty's Day" is a global celebration of Irish culture usually on March 17th. The holiday is in remembrance of St. Patrick, one of Ireland's patron saints, who ministered Christianity in Ireland during the fifth century.
Ireland
Ireland is an island in the North Atlantic to the west of Great Britain.
What do the colors stand for?
Green- signifying Irish Catholics and the republican cause White-Representing the hope for peace
Orange- Standing for Irish Protestants
Orange- Standing for Irish Protestants
Leprechauns
A Leprechaun is an Irish fairy who looks like a small, old man about 2 feet tall. According to legend they are friendly. They live alone and pass time by making shoes. They also hide pots of gold. Its said that when treasure hunters track down one they will threaten him until he tells where is gold is. The captors have to keep a close eye on him because leprechauns are known for ticking them into looking away.
Traditions
Traditions include parades, drinking, dying water green, and religious services.
- Chicago dies their river green for the festivities.
- Some Catholics are Irish-American and might be required to fast from drinking during lent but on St. Patrick's day they are allowed a cheat day.
- In Seattle, the parade routes are painted green. Observers are supposed to wear green or else risk being pinched.