The Chicago River Is Dyed Green Every St. Patrick's Day

Photo : Twitter

Whether it’s all over the world, or in the United States, St. Patrick’s Day comes with rich and vibrant celebrations every year on March 17. This cultural phenomenon, stemming from Irish heritage, raises the question: why do people celebrate by wearing green? To understand this, we need to dive into its historical, cultural and religious significance.

St. Patrick has often been credited with introducing Christianity to Ireland, and has been famously associated with the shamrock, a three-leafed plant. He used it to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity, and since then, the shamrock has come to represent both, St. Patrick, and Ireland. Hence, on St. Patrick’s Day every year, celebrants don shades of green, the color of the shamrock.

Particularly in the U.S, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations have become increasingly popular, with the tradition of donning green now a symbol of unity and support for, and within, Irish culture and heritage. This tradition was largely popularized by Irish immigrants coming to the U.S. during the 19th and 20th centuries. It was a way of maintaining a connection with their homeland and asserting their identity in a new country.

Additionally, green also holds significance in Irish history and folklore. The color was used as a way to render individuals invisible to leprechauns, mischievous beings in Irish folklore, notorious for pinching anyone who didn’t wear green on St. Patrick’s Day. This has furthered the widespread embrace of green clothing as part of the celebrations.

Wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day has transcended its origins in Irish tales and folklore, now serving as a symbol of unity and celebration in modern day society. It thus serves as a visible reminder of the rich and enduring traditions of the Irish, whether it’s in their homeland or across the world.

By Jenel Treza Albuquerque

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