The Ultimate Guide to Celebrating St. Patrick's Day in America

The celebration of St. Patrick's Day in America is a tradition as American as baseball-though considerably older. The year of 1737 may not seem remarkable or worth remembering, but it certainly represents the migration and evolution of a holiday celebrated in the United States from that year forward: St. Patrick's Day. The holiday was celebrated officially and most appropriately in Boston. In 1780, George Washington even gave his troops a holiday on March 17 out of respect for his soldiers of Irish descent. This tradition, both religious and secular, has evolved into a massive celebration in the United States. In the secular sense, it is now celebrated by Irish-Americans and Americans of other descent alike, as well as many Catholics, Protestants, and more. In America, St. Patrick's Day represents a celebration of Irish culture.

For most Irish-Americans, St. Patrick's Day is a recognition of heritage best honored by a combination of various elements such as alcohol, the wearing of the green, church, music, and parades. Most major cities on the east coast close off major streets for parades. Whether or not you live in or near one of these cities, there are several things you can do to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Boston, New York, and Philadelphia respectively host the three oldest continuous public St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the United States.

Wear green Traditionally, the color green represents Ireland. It is used as the backdrop for the traditional harp flag (also used as the Irish-American flag) and represents Catholic Ireland in the tricolor, which is also the Republic of Ireland's official flag. To expatriates and Irish-Americans in particular, green also represents the landscape of Ireland.

Hear the music Surround yourself with Celtic and traditional Irish music. This is the perfect day to learn about céilí, sean nós, and folk styles, as well as Irish instruments. If you live near a city, chances are that you'll be able to find a pub with live Irish music.