St Patrick's Day

What is St Patrick's Day?

St Patrick's Day is a religious and cultural holiday celebrating the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. Held on the 17th March each year, nations all over the globe have celebrations on their own for Saint Patrick's Day. Following the death of Saint Patrick, who was kidnapped and enslaved before escaping and returning decades later as a bishop, this day has become an important part of Irish culture. Traditionally Irish families attend church in the morning and celebrate later by eating traditional feasts usually including the Irish dish of bacon and cabbage. Over the years and throughout the world, tradition has evolved. Some wear symbols of Ireland such as the shamrock and the Irish top hat, some partake in large parades, some consume traditional Irish foods such as cabbage and potatoes. 

When is St Patrick's Day?

Sunday, 17 March 

Activities:

• Have a discussion with the children about Saint Patrick and who he was 
• Draw a shamrock 
• Decorate a shamrock 
• Make your own Irish top hat 
• Make a healthy green smoothie
• Wear green to school
• Wear a symbol of Ireland such as the shamrock and the Irish top hat 
• Explore a parade that has taken place. Watch videos of the large crowds marching 
• Observe images of coloured rivers and green landmarks for the day e.g. the Chicago River 
• Try traditional Irish foods such as cabbage, potatoes