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Saint Patrick’s Day (Wednesday 17th March) , a traditional Irish holiday – celebrated by the folks in the Republic of Ireland and people of the Irish diaspora. In this article, we will learn at a bit about who Saint Patrick was and how the day commemorating his is traditionally celebrated; not to mention a few tips on how you can virtually celebrate at home. Many people have heard of Saint Patrick’s Day but how much do you know of the man himself, before you start celebrating the saint, lets learn a bit more about him.

Who was Saint Patrick?

 Saint Patrick started life growing up in a wealthy British family. Patrick was captured by Irish raiders at the age of 16 whilst staying at his father’s villa. These Irish raiders would take Patrick back with them to Ireland and have him work as a Shepard  - this would be when Patrick would look to faith. Throughout his six years in captivity Patrick would pray and find comfort through religion. It is said that he had dreams of a ship that would be there when he would want to escape – and sure enough that came true. Allowing Patrick to reunited again with his family. Through his short time returning to England; Patrick dedicated his time to religion becoming a Bishop in the process.

Coming to him in another dream, Patrick was called out by “The voice of the Irish” beseeching unto him a mission to return. Upon his eventually, return to Ireland, St. Patrick would baptise and confirm people tirelessly – becoming responsible for Christianity to thrive in Ireland. He was loved and worshipped by many due to his teaching and writing. Despite this St. Patrick did live in constant fear of martyrdom. This did not stop Saint Patrick on his mission. He became a phenomenal saint of Ireland and for that reason, he is celebrated every year on Saint Patricks Day.

St. Patrick’s Day Traditions

Saint Patrick’s Day is a popular holiday, both in Ireland itself but even in the United States also. Nevertheless, you would be surprised what traditions were Irish born and what was created by the Americans. One for example the Colour traditionally associated with Saint Patrick is blue not green like is widely known with the celebration.

• The Shamrock is a traditional symbol of Irish nationalism, originally worn to show pride in their Irish heritage and their defiance against the English rule.
• Irish song and dance became a way the Irish people’s under English rule could express themselves as their culture was effectively outlawed.
• Corned beef and cabbage has become a classic dish for saint Patrick's Days. But did you know this tradition originally came from America - Irish immigrants living in New York, used corned beef as an affordable meat, then it caught on as an Irish tradition. 

How can you celebrate Saint Patrick's Day - Virtually

As we are still in lockdown; Lets take a look at some virtual ideas on how you can celebrate Saint Patrick's Day in your own home:

1. Why not try your hand at cooking some classic Irish recipes such as the previously mentioned - Corned Beef and cabbage. Or try your hand at baking some soda bread. It would be fun to make a full Irish three meal course in celebration to Saint Patrick.
2. Learn some Irish folktales - take the time to learn classic tales and really get familiar with old Irish culture.
3. Virtual Parades - Through Saint Patrick's day there will be virtual parades you can attend, still allowing you enjoy all the festivities from your own home.

So there you have it some history on who Saint Patrick was, its traditions and fun ways you can celebrate 17th March.

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!