When is St. Patrick's Day?

St. Patrick's Day is always March 17th.

Why do people wear green on St. Patrick's Day?

Green is associated with Ireland (the Emerald Isle), Irish nationalism, and the shamrock. Wearing green is considered lucky and is the universal way to show St. Patrick's Day spirit.

Is St. Patrick's Day a public holiday?

It is a national holiday in Ireland and Northern Ireland, but not a federal holiday in the United States, UK, or most other countries.

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Wednesday, March 17, 2027

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What Is St. Patrick's Day?

St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17th each year, marking the death of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, in the 5th century AD. Originally a Catholic feast day, it has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture, heritage, and identity. Cities around the world host parades, and landmarks are lit green. Chicago even dyes its river green every year.

St. Patrick's Day Traditions

Wearing green is the most universal tradition — the color is associated with Ireland, shamrocks, and leprechauns. In Ireland, March 17th is a national holiday with religious observances, festivals, and family gatherings. In the United States, cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago host massive parades drawing millions of spectators. Corned beef and cabbage is the traditional American-Irish dish of the day, though in Ireland itself bacon and cabbage is more traditional.

The Shamrock and Its Meaning

The three-leaf shamrock is the enduring symbol of St. Patrick's Day. According to tradition, St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to pagan Irish people. It later became a symbol of Irish national identity. Finding a four-leaf clover — a rare mutation — is considered particularly lucky, which is where the broader luck-of-the-Irish mythology comes from.