With the origin being Ireland it is obvious that the Day is also holiday there, as it is here in the US.But In Ireland, it is more of a religious holiday similar to Christmas and Easter. With grand parades, community feasts, charity show, the mass, St Patrick's
Day is celebrated in Ireland. The parades, shamrocks, and green beer are provided primarily for tourists. In fact, it has turned out to be one of the most celebrated events in
Ireland and a major tourist attraction.
With so many activities and programs it may seem a little confusing about
what actually is the theme of this multi-dimensional celebration.
The early Irish immigrants like the English, Dutch, German, French and the
likes, brought their traditions in United States. But it was not until
1737 that the immigrants really celebrated the Day. And It was in Boston
where the Day was first celebrated in a public way. Gradually other
states took it up. And it was New York that took out the largest ever St
Patrick' s Day parade. Held since 1762,
Meanwhile the city of Chicago has developed a unique tradition of coloring the river
water green. It started in 1962 when 100 pounds of green vegetable dye were added to its river, enough to keep it green for a week. The tradition has continued till date. Now, 40 pounds of a green food coloring keep the river green for only a few hours.
These apart Irish community in various
cities celebrate the Day with social and community works. Making
charities, attending mass, promoting their own culture, and feasting with
their foods.
Despite all these varieties, all are driven by a unique theme: be an Irish
day. It's a celebration for being Irish and enjoying things
Irish. While it reminds us about St Patrick. It also tells us to be Irish. With shamrocks and the leprechaun. As it tells us to cook and feast the Irish way. To laugh away all worries with
Irish jokes. Dance to the tunes of the Irish bands. Try out the Irish words.
And with all these
the Day lets us know
the real fun of being Irish.
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