Saint Patrick's Day

Saint Patrick's Day History

Saint Patrick's Day is a cultural and religious observance marking the death anniversary of Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland. Born around the 4th century, his legacy has remained prominent in the cultural identity of Irish people worldwide, including those in Australia. The day is a commemoration of the Catholic saint who is believed to have introduced Christianity, specifically Catholicism, to Ireland. Celebrations often include public parades, festivals, formal church services, and the wearing of green attire or accessories – a tradition known as "the wearing of the green".

The relevance of Saint Patrick's Day in Australia can be attributed to the country's substantial Irish immigrant population. In the late 18th and throughout the 19th century, many Irish individuals and families emigrated to Australia, largely due to the Great Famine in Ireland. They brought with them their culture, traditions, and religious beliefs, including the veneration of Saint Patrick. Today, the event provides an opportunity for Australians of Irish descent, and others, to celebrate Irish heritage and culture.

On Saint Patrick's Day, various Australian cities and towns, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, host vibrant parades and community festivals. Various landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, have been illuminated in green as part of the "global greening" initiative. Australian schools and community groups often organise activities involving Irish music, dance, and food, further deepening the bond between Australia and its Irish past. Saint Patrick's Day is celebrated annually on March 17.

Facts about Saint Patrick's Day

• Approximately 10 million pints of Irish Guinness stout are consumed on an average day around the world. On St. Patrick's Day, nearly 13 million are consumed.
• St. Patrick used the three-leaf shamrock to explain the Trinity to non-Christians. The leaves stood for the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
• Various parts of Australia host Saint Patrick's Day parades, which are often filled with music, dancing, and lots of green. Brisbane, in particular, had an annual parade that dated back to 1890, and Sydney held its first in 1810. Melbourne and Perth have also had significant Saint Patrick's Day festivities traditionally.
• In Australia, many people attend church services on Saint Patrick's Day to honor Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland who is said to have introduced Christianity to Ireland in the 5th Century.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Saint Patrick's Day

Top things to do in Australia for Saint Patrick's Day

• Wear green! In some parts of the world, the custom is to pinch people who aren't wearing the color of shamrocks.
• The heart of any Irish neighborhood is its local pub. Share a couple of green Guinness beers with friends at a local Irish pub or try Magner's (Bulmer's) apple cider as an alternative.
• Attend the Sydney's St. Patrick Day Parade and Family Day: This is a vibrant, family-friendly event that celebrates Irish culture with a parade and family attractions, including carnival rides, live music, Irish dancing, traditional food and beverages.
• Read a book to learn more about Saint Patrick:insight.
  The World of Saint Patrick - by Christopher Cairns is an old, but valuable study of the saint and his era.