What is St. Patrick’s Day?

The holiday is celebrated every year on March 17th, honoring the Irish patron saint, St. Patrick. The celebrations are largely Irish culture themed and typically consist of wearing green, parades, and drinking. . He was born around 460, and by the 600s, he was already known as the Patron Saint of Ireland. According to popular legend, St Patrick rid Ireland of snakes. As Irish immigrants spread out over the United States, other cities developed their own traditions. One of these is Chicago’s annual dyeing of the Chicago River green. The practice started in 1962, when city pollution-control workers used dyes to trace illegal sewage discharges and realized that the green dye might provide a unique way to celebrate the holiday. Today, in order to minimize environmental damage, only 40 pounds of dye are used, and the river turns green for only several hours.

How Do People Celebrate It?

What do people do to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day? People go to Ireland. Many people drink green beer; also eat corned-beef, potatoes, and cabbage. Many people will wear something green, and/or wear shamrocks. You don’t have to be Irish to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day, the green-themed holiday known for its celebration of Irish culture and myth. From parties to parades, there are many ways people of all different ethnicities can be Irish for the day and enjoy a good time on St. Patrick’s Day.

What is the Symbol of St. Patrick’s Day?

The most common St Patrick’s Day symbol is the shamrock. The shamrock is the leaf of the clover plant and a symbol of the Holy Trinity. Many people choose to wear the color green and the flag of the Republic of Ireland is often seen in St Patrick’s Day parades around the world. Irish brands of drinks are popular at St Patrick’s Day events.

What To Do on St. Patrick’s Day in DMV Area

1. Go to a basketball game.

Time: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM (3.17.2022)
Location: Settle Down Easy Brewing Co. 2822 Fallfax Drive, Falls Church, VA 22042

2. Listen to live music

Time: 7:30 PM (03.16.2022)
Admission: $25
Location: Jammin’ Java 227 Maple Avenue, East, Vienna, VA 22180

3. Enter a 5K marathon

Time: 8:00 AM (03.13.2022)
Admission: $30 – $45
Location: Reston Town Center 11900 Market St., Reston, VA 20190