As the red and pink of Valentine’s Day starts to fade, shades of green and depictions of leprechauns, rainbows, and pots of gold start to appear in stores and on our TVs. Although it’s a less celebrated holiday here in the US, with Voronoi reporting only 3% of Americans picking it as their favorite day of the year, St Patrick’s Day is still celebrated largely by thousands and even more across the sea.
Here at Glen Rock, many students have a shared Irish and Scottish heritage leading them to celebrate the festivities of St. Patrick’s Day. Junior, Maggie Rundell, explained how her family wears green every single day of March leading up to the day. Her mom also throws a huge St. Patrick’s day party where they invite family and friends over to enjoy a meal together. “Potatoes, lots of potatoes,” she stated animatedly, supporting the association of the Irish and potatoes which dates back to the Great Famine. Many people also eat corned beef and cabbage and drink beer to celebrate the day.
Although the holiday is hardcore celebrated by people of Irish and Scottish descent, Americans have developed their own love for St. Patty’s day and it’s become a way to tie the three cultures together.
Here’s a quick history lesson: Feast Day of St. Patrick, more commonly known as St. Patrick’s Day, celebrates the most successful patron saint of Ireland. Although he was originally from Scotland, at age 16 he was kidnapped from Roman Britain and brought to Ireland as a slave. After his escape, he returned to convert the Irish to Christianity and establish monasteries, churches, and schools. This impact along with the many legends surrounding his name eventually led the Irish to celebrate March 17 as his day.
Historically, St. Patrick’s Day was celebrated with religious services and feasts, similar to a second Christmas. However, as Irish immigrants settled in the United States, the day became less religious and more widely celebrated by all. St. Patty’s Day, as it’s been nicknamed, is largely recognized in cities. Boston held its first parade in 1737, followed by New York City in 1762, and since 1962, Chicago has colored its river green to symbolize the holiday. Locally, the town of Bergenfield has their annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade which is attended by many Bergen County residents.
Just like every other holiday, St. Patrick’s Day has its associated colors and characters. What Santa is to Christmas, and Cupid is to Valentine’s day, a Leprechaun is a recognizable acquaintance to St Patrick’s day. The origin story of a leprechaun is somewhat sillier than most may think. Leprechauns or, lúchoirp, first appeared in Irish literature as elves or fairies who partook in mischievous acts. As time has progressed, they’ve taken on a place in the mythical creature realm and are a staple part of St. Patrick’s Day. They wear the color green which is another important feature and represents a Shamrock, the national plant of Ireland. Though a minor holiday, St. Patrick’s Day still has an important role in our yearly calendar and gives us the chance to learn and experience Irish culture.
