St. Patrick's Day - Customs and Blarney

St. Patrick's Day is a religious holiday that has been observed by the Irish for thousands of years. Celebrated on March 17, the anniversary of the death of St. Patrick the patron saint of Ireland. St. Patrick was captured by the Irish raiders and held captive for six years. During the time of captivity he turned to his religion for solace. Becoming a devout Christian he dreamed of one day converting the Irish people to Christianity. In 432 King Laoghaire allowed St. Patrick to spread the word of Christianity in Ireland.

The Shamrock....

The shamrock is without a doubt the most recognized symbol of Ireland. The shamrock, which was called the "seamrox" by the ancient Celts, was a sacred plant the symbolized the rebirth of spring. They also believed the shamrock to have mystical powers because of the three leaves. They believed the number three to be a sacred and magical number.
Contrary to belief the shamrock is not the official symbol of Ireland, it is the Celtic harp.

The Leprechaun....

The Leprechaun (or Lobaircin- meaning small bodied fellow) is a fairy. According to legend Leprechauns were unfriendly fairies known for their trickery, often to protect their pot of gold. The friendly Leprechaun is an American invention that has evolved into a symbol of St. Patrick's Day.

St. Patrick's Day Parade....

The first St. Patrick's Day parade did not take place in Ireland, but in the United States. On March 17, 1762 Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through New York, to reconnect with their Irish roots. Now on March 17 more than 100 United States cities have a parade for this holiday. With the largest being held in New York City.

The Blarney Stone....

The blarney stone is a stone set in a wall of the Blarney Castle Tower in the village of Blarney in Ireland. Legend has it that old women cast a spell on the stone to reward the king, who had saved her from drowning. Kissing the stone gave the king the ability to talk "sweetly." Thus giving him "the gift to gab."

Another version is that the stone was given to the King of Munster by Robert the Bruce as a thank you for sending troops to assist him in the battle of Bannockburn.

Music, Dance and Drinking....

It's hard to think of St. Patrick's Day or Ireland in general without thinking of music, dance and drinking. Music has always been an integral part of the Irish culture. Their Irish history and legends are passed on from generation to generation through songs and stories. Some well known Irish songs include Molly Malone, Cockles and Mussels, Finnegan's Wake and Whiskey in the Jar.

Speaking of whiskey in the jar, the word whiskey is actually an Irish word "uisce beatha" meaning "water of life." The Irish are famous for their fondness of drinking and make some of the finest beer and whiskey in the world. And who doesn't love a good ole Irish toast - "May the Good Lord take a liking to you, but not to soon."

One of the most interesting aspects of the Irish culture is the dancing. The history of Irish dance is vague. Many believe that during the time of the Druids, that dance was started as part of religious rituals. Irish style dance has influenced American dance styles such as tap and jazz. The Irish dancing is preformed at almost every happy occasion, as well as wakes.