Saint Patrick's Day

Saint Patrick's Day History

Saint Patrick's Day is dedicated to honoring Saint Patrick, one of Ireland's patron saints. Known for its parades, wearing of green attire, and public festivities, the day is a tribute to the Irish heritage and culture. It also holds religious significance within the Christianity, particularly within the Catholic Church, as the day is associated with St. Patrick's attribution of bringing Christianity to Ireland.

The tradition of Saint Patrick's Day dates back to the early 17th century, observed on the death anniversary of Saint Patrick around 461 AD. As for New Zealand, the celebration is largely attributed to the Irish immigrant community who brought these traditions to the country during the 19th century. With a considerable Irish diaspora, Saint Patrick's Day holds importance for many New Zealanders, serving as a day for them to acknowledge their Irish descent and celebrate the enduring vibrancy of Irish culture.

Saint Patrick's Day sees a plethora of events, from parades, concerts to more traditional performances of Irish music and dance. Cities across the country, such as Auckland and Wellington, are bedecked in green and bustling with activities. Many people also attend church services and the Irish community holds gatherings, making the occasion a lively and festive one. Saint Patrick's Day is celebrated annually on March 17th.

Facts about Saint Patrick's Day

• Approximately 10 million pints of Irish Guinness stout are consumed on an average day around the world. On St. Patrick's Day, nearly 13 million are consumed.
• St. Patrick used the three-leaf shamrock to explain the Trinity to non-Christians. The leaves stood for the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
• New Zealand and Ireland share some common factors, both being island nations with strong ties to the UK, having deep-rooted indigenous cultures, and a shared love for rugby.
• In Auckland, one of the most iconic landmarks, the Sky Tower, is illuminated green for the occasion. This is part of the global "Go Green for St Patrick's" campaign, during which notable landmarks around the world are lit up green.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Saint Patrick's Day

Top things to do in NZ for Saint Patrick's Day

• Wear green! In some parts of the world, the custom is to pinch people who aren't wearing the color of shamrocks.
• The heart of any Irish neighborhood is its local pub. Share a couple of green Guinness beers with friends at a local Irish pub or try Magner's (Bulmer's) apple cider as an alternative.
• Attend Auckland Saint Patrick's Day Parade & Fleadh: Considered one of the main St. Patrick's Day events, where people gather on Queen Street to watch the Irish music and dance parade.
• Read a book to learn more about Saint Patrick:
  The Life and Legends of Saint Patrick - by T.W. Rolleston: This book has an insightful collection of stories, legends, and historical facts about the Saint.
  The World of Saint Patrick - by Philip Freeman: This book explores the historical context of Saint Patrick and the world he lived in.