On Tuesday March 17th, or every March 17th, the Irish and those alike sport shades of green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. For those who aren’t Irish or don’t know why we celebrate St. Patty’s Day (other than avoiding being pinched!), AOB wants to make sure you know exactly what the holiday is and why you should get out and celebrate it!
St. Patrick’s Day commemorates who else but the Saint Patrick, who died in the fifth century. It is a national holiday for the Irish, but an adopted holiday for the rest of the country. It was often celebrated as a religous holiday until the 1990’s when the Irish government wanted to celebrate its culture and nationalism.
We all know Ireland is the place to be to indulge in Irish favorites such as cabbage, corned beef and beer, but lets take a look at other countries worth checking out.
1. Chicago, Illinois USA
One would think Chicago, the windy city of the United States is a strange place for an Irish tradition. Little do we know that backpackers find the Chicago River one of the best free attractions on St Pattys Day. The Chicago River is dyed green, in honor of the holiday. How did this happen? In 1962, when the sanitation department used dyes to trace illegal sewage particles. Someone thought it would be a clever idea to use that dye to honor the friendly Irish.
2. Florence, Italy
‘Festa Irlandese’ is the Italian way to celebrate the Irish holiday. For the past 2 years, the two week festival has been a great success and will continue this year, even as we speak! Events include Irish dancing lessons, Irish film viewings and an international darts match. It all comes down to the Tuesday the 17th where everyone will celebrate the last day of the holiday.
‘3. Buenos Aires, Argentina
If you’re looking to drink and who doesn’t, and a flight to Ireland is a bit out of budget, check out the comfortable weather in South America. For the all night party going person, Buenos Aires accommodates the youth culture in appreciation of St. Patricks Day with all night parties. Look for the street called Reconquista, where many Celtic bars are ready to be Irish for the night. In 2006 about 50,000 party goers celebrates St. Patty’s Day in Buenos Aires. We are told prices for pints aren’t too shabby either, so drink up!
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However you choose to celebrate St. Patricks Day this year, do it safely and responsibly. And enjoy yourself and have fun!
Teresa is the Co-Founder of ArtofBackpacking; Ms. Art of Backpacking. She is currently studying to be a Journalist at St. John’s University. Upon completion of her University studies, she will travel and see more of this beautiful world. If she is not online reading all the latest travel blogs, you can find her writing and taking pictures around NYC, her hometown.
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