St. Patrick’s Day more than just green

Everybody knows that St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, is a day usually associated with wearing green, shamrocks, leprechauns and partying. But the day actually has a completely different meaning to it.

The day known as St. Patrick’s Day is actually the death anniversary of Saint Patrick. Saint Patrick was a patron saint of Ireland during the fifth century, the period from 401-500 AD. At age 16, he was enslaved and was brought to Ireland.  He then escaped, but came back to Ireland where he became well known for bringing Christianity to the Irish people. It wasn’t until the 9th or 10th century that the people of Ireland began celebrating this holiday. However, the first parade took place by a Spanish colony in what is now known as St. Augustine, Florida on March 17, 1601.

Myths are a big part of the day’s celebrations. The primary myth is about is leprechauns. The myth of the leprechauns most likely comes from the Irish mythology, the luchorpán and the clúrachán. The luchorpán is from the 8th century story called The Death of Fergus mac Leiti. This story is about tiny water spirits called the luchorpán who trick a king into giving up his throne after luring him into the sea and granting him three wishes. The clúrachán is a household fairy that loves drinking and haunts wine cellars. Like a leprechaun, the clúrachán is a trickster and traditionally dresses in green.

So whether you wear green or hope to find a leprechaun with a pot of gold, have fun celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.