The Saint
St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. Also known as the Apostle of Ireland, St. Patrick lived and worked as a missionary in the 5th century. Legend has it that St. Patrick banished all snakes (serpents) from Ireland, using his staff to expel them, during a 40-day fast.
A Celebration of All Things Irish
Today, St. Patrick’s Day is both a religious and a public holiday. From the religious perspective, St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 commemorates the coming of Christianity in Ireland. From the perspective of the general public, it’s a celebration of all things Irish.
Lots of Revelers
If Wikipedia is to be believed, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated by more countries than any other national festival (national because March 17 is a public holiday in Ireland). In the U.S., people celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the color green and – yes – “copious consumption of alcohol.”
If you’re out celebrating today, stay safe, don’t drink too much, and enjoy yourself.
