St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually to honor the patron saint of Ireland who brought Christianity to the island around the 5th century. It is celebrated March 17, the day that St. Patrick passed, by wearing green, dancing to Irish jigs, feasting on Irish meals, and listening to Irish music, or watching a themed parade.

“The green river in Chicago looks so bright I have always wanted to see it,” said junior Victoria Volum, referring to an annual tradition in the Illinois city.

The U.S acknowledges the feast by dyeing the Chicago river green. It is used with a environmentally-friendly vegetable-based power, which appears orange before turning it into a bright green to create the effect.

Many cities across the United States hold parades and festivals to honor the holiday. Large celebrations take place in places like New York City and Boston where there are large populations of Irish descendants who gather to watch marching bands, bagpipers and performers dressed in traditional Irish clothing. These parades often include floats decorated with shamrocks and leprechauns that represent luck and heritage.

“It’s fun to see drinks that are dyed green in restaurants,” said junior Isabella Baena.

Food also plays an important role in the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Many people enjoy traditional Irish meals such as corned beef and cabbage, soda bread, and shepherd’s pie. Restaurants and homes alike prepare these dishes to share with others, helping to spread Irish culture beyond Ireland itself. Desserts and drinks are often dyed green to match the theme of the holiday, adding a festive touch.

St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish people. Because of this, the shamrock has become a lasting symbol of Irish identity and faith.