What are 10 interesting facts about St. Patrick’s Day?

Saint Patrick’s Day, or the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a cultural and religious celebration annually held on 17 March, the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.

Here are ten interesting facts about St. Patrick’s Day:

1. Saint Patrick wasn’t actually Irish. He was born in Britain in the fourth century and later brought to Ireland as a slave.
2. Saint Patrick’s Day is a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador (for provincial government employees), and the British Overseas Territory of Montserrat.
3. The shamrock is a traditional symbol of Saint Patrick’s Day and is said to represent the Holy Trinity.
4. Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated in more countries than any other national festival.
5. The Chicago River is dyed green every year for Saint Patrick’s Day.
6. Saint Patrick’s Day is also celebrated in many other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
7. Saint Patrick’s Day is observed by the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Lutheran Church.
8. Green became associated with Saint Patrick’s Day later because of Ireland’s green landscapes.
9. Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations have been held for over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest holidays in the world.
10. The first Saint Patrick’s Day parade was held in New York City in 1762.