Every March 17, the world observes St. Patrick's Day, which is associated with a festival held in honor of the patron saint of Ireland. St. Patrick's Day is a holiday deeply rooted in the celebration of parades, mounds of festivities, and plenty of green in clothes, food, and decorations. This day is meant to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Irish people all over the world.

Said ‘Emerald’ because of its beautiful landscapes and flowers, Ireland is known as green Isle. The color of a shamrock is closely associated with Ireland and, as such, has become its widely accepted representation. It is also believed that St. Patrick explained the concept of the Holy Trinity and its three phases through the three-leaf shamrock. The association goes as far back as the color green being linked to pride and tradition in Ireland. When the Irish Spirit was boosted into the United States, St. Patrick’s revelers decided that the color green would be associated with this event, together with wearing shamrocks. The tradition of wearing green on this holiday has evolved to include everyone, regardless of nationality. It is believed that the color green protects or makes one invisible to leprechauns, Irish legendary creatures that would pinch anyone who did not wear green on that day. This tradition has only increased the wearing of green, from hats to accessories, during the holiday season. 

As much as St. Patrick’s Day is known for partying, it actually originated in religious feasts held during the life of St. Patrick who’s said to have introduced Christianity to Ireland. The holiday started with attending church and having family gatherings and later evolved to celebrate Irish culture and heritage.

Irish immigrants started celebrating their culture in cities such as New York and Boston in the early 18th century, which resulted in parades with Irish dancing and music. People showed their Irish pride by wearing green and decorating floats with the color, signifying their heritage. The custom of celebrating with parades quickly spread and is now observed as part of the worldwide St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

In modern times, Irish bagpipe music and dancing have been added to the festivities and are celebrated alongside more modern activities. In many cities, pubs serve delicious Irish food such as corned beef and cabbage alongside drinks like Guinness beer, and they are usually full of festive people. Now, the holiday is just as much about the food and drinks as it is about honoring the Irish.

Changing food and drinks to match the festivities is one of the most fun parts of St. Patrick's Day. Bars and restaurants have green cocktails and soft drinks for sale, and many serve dyed beverages. Green beer is perhaps the most iconic of these creations, as its vibrant color makes it a fun addition for the celebration.

Along with green pancakes and green eggs, even green desserts are on the menu. The entire Irish celebration is festive in nature and so is the food. Sitting in front of a snooker match: green motifs everywhere, and gorging oneself on food and snacks becomes the theme of the day. People splurge on green treats and rejoice. The wonderful shift of greens into the set adds a new taint to the holiday. It’s not just in their closets – the whole holiday is a feast for the senses.  

The international and multicultural open-mindedness in St. Patrick’s fest is something every reasonable person should have a look at. People from every country and culture come together to mark the day, in a shared spirit. Even those without irish roots will join in for a fest dedicated to their culture and try to celebrate actively. It's a day where, despite our differences, we're united.

From parades in Dublin to gatherings in New York City, St. Patrick's Day is a testament to the global impact of Irish culture. The color green has come to herald not just Ireland, but the pride and oneness of the Irish people, no matter where they find themselves. It is a day where custom collides with celebration, and the glue that binds it all together is green.