As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, kids might be curious to learn more about this holiday. Here are some fun facts to share with them:
1. St. Patrick wasn’t Irish: St. Patrick was actually born in Britain and was taken captive to Ireland as a slave when he was 16. He later escaped and returned to England, but came back to Ireland as a missionary.
2. The shamrock is a symbol of the holiday: St. Patrick used the three-leafed shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish people. Today, many people wear shamrocks on their clothing or use them as decorations.
3. It’s a national holiday in Ireland: St. Patrick’s Day is a public holiday in Ireland, which means that businesses and schools are closed. It’s celebrated with parades, festivals, and other events.
4. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was in America: The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in New York City in 1762. Today, there are parades in many cities around the world.
5. The color green is associated with St. Patrick’s Day: Green is the color of Ireland and is often worn or used in decorations on St. Patrick’s Day. Some people also dye their food or beverages green to celebrate the holiday.
6. Corned beef and cabbage is a traditional dish: Many people in the United States associate St. Patrick’s Day with corned beef and cabbage, but this dish is not commonly eaten in Ireland. In Ireland, traditional dishes for the holiday include Irish stew and soda bread.
7. St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in space: In 2011, astronaut Cady Coleman played a traditional Irish flute while aboard the International Space Station to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
