Happy St Patrick's Day

St. Patrick’s Day observes of the death of St. Patrick. He was the patron saint of Ireland. It takes place every year on Friday 17 March.

Although it now has evolved into a celebration of Irish culture, it has a rich history. Although modern celebrations have parades, drinking and dancing, this is rooted in a history of prohibition.

St. Patrick’s Day falls during the Christian season of Lent. But, restrictions against eating meat were waved on this day and Irish families would eat a traditional meal of bacon and cabbage.

People in Ireland have been observing the day since around the 9th or 10th century. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade actually took in the United States of America. A St. Patrick’s Day parade was held on March 17 1601 in a Spanish colony in an area now recognised as Florida.

Nearly 200 years later, homesick Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched in New York City on March 17 1772 to honour the Irish patron saint. Multiple parades formed in the following years.

In 1848, these parades came together to form the official New York City St Patrick’s Day Parade. The tradition continues to this day.

For all staff and residents celebrating, we wish you a very happy day.