TeenZone Blog

March 17 is St. Paddy’s Day! But besides everyone wearing green and being honorarily Irish, what’s it all about?

St. Paddy’s Day or Paddy’s Day, is an annual feast day which celebrates Saint Patrick (circa 385–461), one of the patron saints of Ireland. There are several legends surrounding St. Patrick amongst those is the legend that he drove all the snakes out of Ireland. Sure enough, you won’t find any wild snakes there! Legend also credits Saint Patrick with teaching the Irish about Chrisitian concept of the Holy Trinity using a shamrock, or three-leafed clover. Unlike snakes, you’ll find plenty of shamrocks on display on St. Paddy’s Day.

St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are extremely popular in the United States.  The first civic and public celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day in the 13 colonies took place in Boston, Massachusetts  in 1737.During this first celebration The Charitable Irish Society of Boston organized what was the first Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in the colonies on 17 March 1737.

Americans celebrate the holiday by wearing green clothing. Many people, regardless of ethnic background, wear green-coloured clothing and items. Traditionally, those who are caught not wearing green get pinched! Don’t let this happen to you!

Another fun thing people do to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is eat green food and drink green beverages! You can either eat things that are naturally green, or you can make your own green food. Try adding green food coloring to mashed potatoes (a traditional Irish food indeed!) or even scrambled eggs for a colorful meal! Several restaurants will serve green food and drinks around St. Patrick’s Day. You’ll have no problems finding green St. Paddy’s Day themed milkshakes, donuts, ice cream and other sweets to enjoy!  

Check out the History Channel’s St. Patrick’s Day website to learn more about the history and the traditions surrounding the great green holiday! You can also check out these great books and videos in the library’s colleciton.

People camped out in front of stores in the cold for hours - and sometimes DAYS - just to try and get in on some of the amazing deals offered during the day after Thanksgiving sales!  Check out the videos on the CBS news site. Craziness! And the stores will stay busy and crowded until the holidays are over.

If crowds are not your thing…or money is a bit tight…or you prefer giving presents with a more personal touch, maybe making some gifts to give this holiday season is for you. Check out these books to get some ideas. Or try the Home & Garden Television or Better Homes & Gardens sites.  

Hand-made jewelry is another great gift idea. We have jewelry making books or try the All Info about Jewelry Making or Beadage sites to get the how to info and ideas.

Whether you decide to buy or make, remember gift-giving is not about WHAT is given but the THOUGHT behind it.