Do you consider yourself a Saint Patrick expert? Let’s delve into the story of Ireland’s beloved saint right here, right now. As there are some popular beliefs, you might be surprised where they really came from. Get ready to celebrate St Patrick’s Day the best way - with all the fun facts! ☘️

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Related: #2 Travel Tip Tuesday: Tips to Successful Family Travel
 

Was Saint Patrick Irish?

This is one of the most disputed facts about Saint Patrick. While he is often associated with Ireland, he was actually born in Roman Britain during the late 4th century AD. Roman Britain covered a large portion of what is now England, Scotland, and Wales, making it difficult to pinpoint his exact birthplace within these regions.

During his youth, pirates from Ireland captured him, taking him there as a slave. For six years, he served as a shepherd, a solitary role that gave him plenty of time for personal reflection and spiritual development. Ultimately, Patrick secured his escape and returned to his family in Britain.

After Patrick’s religious awakening in Britain, he became a devoted Christian. He said he had a vision from God, urging him to return to Ireland, not as a slave but as a missionary. His goal? To spread the Christian faith. Fueled by his newfound faith, Patrick journeyed back this time as a bishop.

He spent his years preaching, welcoming new Christians through baptism, and building churches and monasteries throughout the land. Such dedication was legendary, that’s why he’s credited with bringing Christianity to a large part of Ireland.

Saint Patrick changed the country through his work and commitment, making him a big figure in Irish history and culture, despite not being Irish by birth as a matter of fact.
 

Was Patrick His Real Name?

Before becoming the famous figure known to all, he had a much different name: Maewyn Succat. But when he became a priest, he took on the name “Patricius,” the Latin word for nobleman, as a symbol of his newfound faith and commitment to his calling.

This name change was not only a spiritual turning point but also marked his mission to spread his faith throughout the country, which eventually earned him the title of Ireland’s patron saint.
 

Why Is It Celebrated On March 17th?

It is believed it was the date he passed away around the late 400s or early 500s AD.

Gradually, this day got linked with all the stories and customs about his life and influence. The Catholic Church there honored Saint Patrick’s life and achievements on this day also. Hence, once a religious tribute to Ireland’s patron saint, it’s become a global phenomenon, a day to cheer Irish culture, history, and traditions.
 

Was He Even A Saint?

One of the most fun facts about St Patrick’s Day is that Saint Patrick himself wasn’t precisely canonized as a saint. When he lived, the Catholic Church didn’t have a set way to make someone a saint. It wasn’t until the 12th century that a proper process for it was set.

At that time, there wasn’t a formal process to declare someone a saint. Instead, people’s good deeds and reputation for holiness spoke for themselves. Take St. Patrick, for example. His incredible work spreading Christianity in Ireland and his holy life earned him widespread respect. He’s now known as their patron saint for that, and every March 17th, the Catholic Church has been celebrating his special day for a really long time, since maybe the 9th or 10th century.
 

How Did St Patrick’s Day Parades Begin?

St Patrick’s Day celebrations started long ago in Ireland, but the idea of having big parades just for the holiday began in the USA.

St Patrick’s Day parades started in North America, with the first in New York City in 1762. Irish soldiers there set it up to honor their heritage. As more Irish people moved to the country, St Patrick’s Day became a renowned holiday.

Since then, St Patrick’s Day parades have become a cherished tradition in many towns, mainly those with Irish influence. Such lively marches are spectacles not to be missed, usually with bands, bagpipers, dancers, and bright floats, all adorned in green! The NYC St Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the largest.
 

Why Shamrocks are Tied to Saint Patrick and Luck?

For centuries, this tiny three-leaf clover has been Ireland’s lucky charm.

The Celts called it “seamrog” and saw it as a sacred symbol of spring. In addition, numerous facts point to Saint Patrick using it to teach about the Holy Trinity (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) to the first Christians in Ireland. By the 17th century, it took on a new meaning, making it a symbol of Irish pride and growing nationalism.

No doubt, the shamrock is special in Irish culture. It’s a plant that perfectly represents Ireland as a strong national symbol.
 

Why Green for St Patrick’s Day?

Green wasn’t always the color of St Patrick’s Day. Believe it or not, blue used to be the lucky one! What’s more, green was even unlucky. So, how did things turn around?

Here are the known facts: The lush green landscape of Ireland, nicknamed the “Emerald Isle,” and the green shamrock, linked to Saint Patrick, slowly stole the spotlight. Today, green reigns supreme, and pretty much nobody knows this side story.

Let’s explain in more depth: Ireland is famous for its lush green scenery. Rain and nice weather always make the land green with rolling hills and rich countryside. Such a connection to green colors is a big part of their culture, showing off the beauty of nature.

In some parts of their history, the color green was strongly linked with Irish rebels who used it during their fight for independence from England. Irish immigrants in America also proudly showed green and the Irish flag to represent their heritage, making the connection even stronger.

While blue held some earlier associations with Ireland, green emerged as the dominant national color through a confluence of factors. For instance, certain political events led to a decline in the use of blue. Likewise, the shamrock’s adoption as a symbol of Irish identity and rebellion solidified the final adoption of green.

A fun fact is that even in Irish stories wearing green makes one invisible to leprechauns, which are playful little creatures.
 

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