So, you think you know everything about St. Patrick’s Day, huh? Well, grab your green hat because we’re about to dive into some fun facts that might just surprise you. From its not-so-Irish origins to the real deal behind those festive parades and dishes. These tidbits prove there’s more to this holiday than sporting a festive green outfit and boozing it up!
St. Patrick was Actually British
Contrary to popular belief, St. Patrick wasn’t Irish. He was born in Britain around the end of the 4th century. Kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland, he eventually became a symbol of Irish culture and heritage.
March 17 is Not His Birthday
March 17th, the day we all wear green and celebrate, isn’t actually St. Patrick’s birthday. It’s believed to be the day he died in 461 AD. The date has transformed from a religious observance to a global celebration of Irish culture.
The First St. Patrick’s Day Parade was Held in America
St. Patrick’s Day parades are now a global phenomenon, but the first recorded parade wasn’t in Ireland; it was in America in 1601, in a Spanish colony that is now St. Augustine, Florida. Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through the streets, marking the beginning of the tradition.
Corned Beef & Cabbage is an American Thing
The classic St. Patrick’s Day dish in America, corned beef and cabbage, actually has its roots in the immigrant experience. In Ireland, bacon was the meat of choice, but Irish immigrants in America found corned beef to be a cheaper alternative.
The Shortened Version is St. Paddy’s Day NOT St. Patty’s Day
Paddy is derived from Pádraig, the Irish name for Patrick, making “St. Paddy’s Day” the correct abbreviation. “Patty” is more commonly associated with Patricia or a burger patty, not the patron saint of Ireland.
It Used to Be A Religious Holiday
Originally, St. Patrick’s Day was a religious feast day for the patron saint of Ireland. Over time, it has evolved into a more secular celebration of Irish culture and heritage around the world. It wasn’t always about the green food and booze!
The Color Green Has Ties to the Irish Independence Movement of the Late 18th Century
While blue was initially associated with St. Patrick, green became the color of the holiday due to its connection with the Irish independence movement in the late 18th century. Wearing green became a symbol of Irish pride and rebellion against British rule.
The Use of the Shamrock to Symbolize the Holy Trinity is Highly Debated
St. Patrick is said to have used the shamrock to explain the Christian Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish. However, the accuracy of this teaching tool is a topic of debate among scholars. Regardless, the shamrock has become a widely recognized symbol of the holiday.
He Was Never Actually Canonized as a Saint in the Catholic Church
Despite being known as St. Patrick, he was never formally canonized by the Catholic Church. This is largely because there was no formal canonization process in place at the time of his death. Nevertheless, he is widely recognized and venerated as the patron saint of Ireland.
10 Best Frozen Veggies To Keep In Your Freezer At All Times For Easy Meals
Keeping the right frozen veggies on hand is like having a secret weapon for easy meal prep. This list is a carefully selected lineup of the best frozen vegetables that promise to turn your everyday cooking into something effortlessly delicious. From the sweet char of fire roasted corn to the versatile goodness of chopped spinach, these freezer staples ensure you’re always ready to whip up something tasty.
See them here: 10 Best Frozen Veggies To Keep In Your Freezer At All Times For Easy Meals
The Top 10 Mercury-Heavy Fish and What to Have Instead
Navigating the world of seafood can sometimes feel like sailing through murky waters, especially when it comes to mercury content. While fish is a fantastic source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, certain types pack a punch with high levels of mercury, posing health risks. We’re shining a light on those fish and offering up a net-full of safer alternatives so you can make informed choices to enjoy seafood that’s not only tasty but also good for your health.
See them here: The Top 10 Mercury-Heavy Fish and What to Have Instead
The Best Fast Food Sides That Go Beyond Fries
Let’s face it, when we think fast food, it’s the burgers and fries that usually steal the show. But what about the unsung heroes of the menu, those side dishes that can turn a quick meal into something special? From the crispy, golden perfection of onion rings to the fluffy, buttery bliss of biscuits, there’s a whole world of flavor waiting to be explored. We’re diving into some of the most delicious and underrated fast food sides out there.
See Them Here: The Best Fast Food Sides That Go Beyond Fries
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
