One of Ireland’s most iconic holidays has to be St Patrick’s day! This nationally celebrated day has been held annually on the 17th March for over 1000 years! There’s nothing quite like dressing in your finest green attire and heading down to your local parade or Irish pub (especially in Dingle, with there being over 50 to choose from) to celebrate with friends. And then, we have the delicious Irish foods traditions such as Irish Stew and of course paired with fresh Irish soda bread. But how much do you really know about this nationwide celebration?
The story of St Patrick
Did you know St Patrick himself wasn’t actually Irish? (Cue the gasps!) He was born in Roman Britain but when he was 16 he was captured by Irish raiders and was sent to Northern Ireland as a slave. When he was eventually freed, he became a shepherd and began spreading Christianity to the Irish through baptism and confirmation. He also explained the Holy Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) using the three leaves of a native Irish clover, the shamrock. After his death he was named Ireland’s patron saint. Celebrations of this Saint are worldwide and even some countries such as Argentina, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand like to partake. Did you know? Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated in more countries than any other national festival.
Older celebrations began when the Irish emigrated to the U.S., it was here they created bigger celebrations and parades known today. It was encouraged that everyone celebrating wear the colour green but there is also folklore that says wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns, which like to pinch anyone they can see. Some people also think sporting the colour will bring good luck, and others wear it to honour their Irish ancestry.
Celebrations in Ireland
No where in the world quite does it better then where the story originates from – Ireland. And even more so in the small quaint town of Dingle in County Kerry. If you’re fortunate enough to live in Ireland, you get the day off so celebrations can start early with a 6am parade around the town when the Dingle Fife and Drum Band take the streets and bring a magical start to the day. The parade leads the townspeople around the town where they end up at St Mary’s Church for an early morning mass. Every village on the Peninsula will have one, so don’t fear, you won’t miss out wherever you stay. Finish the day off, the Irish way, in one of the many pubs in Dingle to choose from. Dick Macks is one of our favourites.
We know there’s some of you who love a last minute getaway, so we have two homes with availability left in Dingle town
The Eco Penthouse – A gorgeous three bedroom Penthouse apartment at the top of Dingle town.
The Hideaway – Cosily tucked away on a hidden street, this home is in the heart of John Street in Dingle town.