As far as holidays go, there are numerous ones to celebrate throughout the year. St. Patrick’s Day is just another one of many, celebrating the Irish Saint Patrick, and Irish pride. It is a holiday steeped in tradition and Irish custom, which make the day stand out from the others.

People in America can occasionally forget about St. Patrick’s Day, as it does not directly influence the citizens of the U.S

“It’s alright,” said freshman Ocean Walker. “It’s not the best holiday ever. It doesn’t stand out that much compared to other holidays.”

Most people recognize St. Patty’s as the day to wear all green and pinch others. Despite this commercialized view, there is much more to the holiday’s tradition and history than others may know or think.

“I don’t think it’s [the holiday] overlooked because people wear green and clover necklaces, and they pinch people. It’s a tradition in my family,” claimed sophomore Summer Booth.

Celebrated on March 17, the day was created as a commemoration to St. Patrick. The holiday was created on the day he died to celebrate his life. St.Patrick was one of the first men to introduce Christianity to Ireland. As a result, the Irish Church also celebrates the holiday of his death. Special fasts and services mark the day apart from others. The day also became a day for Irish pride.

“They celebrate the culture of Ireland by wearing green. So they don’t forget about it and have fun,” said sophomore Michael Makhmudov.

The day itself is mostly known by foreigners for customs the Irish perform on or associate with the day. For example, the shamrock was a symbol of Irish nationalism and is used during St. Patty’s day for decoration or to wear. It also was used by St. Patrick to explain the Holy Trinity.

Another tradition is the leprechaun. In Ireland, leprechauns were small fairy-like creatures. It wasn’t until later films depicting Irish leprechauns that Americans added it to the idea of the holiday.

There is also a traditional Irish custom of preparing corned beef on the holiday. Corned beef is a traditional Irish meal, usually prepared with cabbage. It began to be associated with the holiday when Irish immigrants began using the corned beef as a substitute for other meats.

Of course there are other traditions such as the wearing of green, pinching of others, and the playing of Irish folk music.

As for the actual Irish folk, St. Patrick’s is celebrated in many different ways. Through traditions  such as wearing green, and having parades celebrating culture, they commemorate the holiday. There are also commonly parties held where Irish music is played and traditional Irish food, such as corn beef hash, is made.

Saint Patrick’s Day is a holiday just like any other when it comes down to it. It is the marking of an important day for a culture that wishes to celebrate its diversity and importance.