What is St. Patrick's Day?

Every March, St Patrick's Day happens, so what do we really know about the holiday. It's much more than a day for drinking green coffee or beer, wearing green, seeing shamrocks everywhere and kissing the Irish, lol.

Originally St Patrick's Day was a religious holiday commemorating St Patrick, who is the patron saint of Ireland, he's the man who brought Christianity to Ireland. He is originally from Roman Britain, but he was kidnapped and brought to Ireland as a slave at the age of 16, he was imprisoned for years, where he took up Christianity. After that, he had visions from God, who told him to go back to Ireland and spread the gospel, which he did for 20 years. He passed away on March 17th 461, which is why we celebrate on that day.

According to legend, this is how the shamrock became part of the St Patrick's Day traditions/creations. St Patrick used it as a symbol to help teach the concept of the Holy Trinity, using the three leaves connected to the one stem. Not to be confused with a four-leaf clover, which is different because it has four leaves and is a symbol of good luck!

There are lots of fun ways to celebrate this holiday whether you are Irish or not. You can check your local area and establishments to see what fun things they have planned. Newport had their St Patrick's Day parade this past weekend and if you missed that one no worries, the Providence St Patrick's Day parade is happening on March 19th on Smith Street in Providence! Look out for us driving in the parade, I'll be waving at you! There's also the Tour de Patrick, the three-part 5K. The second part Guinness's St Pat's 5K is happening in Providence on March 19th, starts at the State House, it's happening before the parade. The third part takes place Sunday, March 27th in North Kingstown. Check out more info on that here.

Whatever you choose to do, be safe; enjoy your green drinks, remember to drink water, and call a ride if you need one. Have a fun and Happy Saint Patrick's Day!!!