Beyond the Green Novelty: The Real Story Behind St. Patrick's Day

Every 17th March, we see cities and towns transformed into a sea of green. Parades, music and a fair amount of rather unusual attire. But beneath the surface of shamrocks and celebratory pints lies a deeper history, one that spans centuries and continents.

The Unlikely Patron Saint

St. Patrick, the man whose day it is, wasn't Irish. He was British, captured and enslaved in Ireland as a young man. Imagine, if you will, a teenager forced to tend sheep, finding solace in his budding faith. After six years though he escaped, only to feel compelled to return as a missionary to the very people who had held him captive. A remarkable turn of events.

He used the humble shamrock, also known as the three-leaf clover, to explain the Holy Trinity. A visual aid so effective it has endured for centuries. When he died, around 461 CE, his death was marked as a feast day which was a quiet, religious observance.

From Quiet Observance to Global Celebration

For centuries, St. Patrick's Day was a subdued affair in Ireland consisting of church, family and a special meal. Then, as the Irish slowly spread across the globe, things changed particularly in America. Consider the experience of Irish immigrants spending their days building lives in a new world and yet using their patron saint's day to show, "We remember our roots." Parades became expressions of identity, a vibrant splash of green in a changing landscape. The holiday turned into a spectacle, a celebration of resilience and community.

Australia's Irish Connection

Australia's history is intertwined with Irish heritage, both through voluntary migration and forced transportation. From convict ships to thriving communities, Irish settlers have shaped the nation. Today, cities like Sydney and Melbourne host vibrant celebrations. Pubs in every State become temporary hubs of Irish culture. It's a reminder that traditions can travel and become global days of celebration.

The Modern Meaning of Green

Today, St. Patrick's Day has many meanings. For some, it remains a religious holiday, a time for reflection. For others, it's a connection to their heritage, a way to keep ancestral stories alive. And for many, it's simply a chance to join a global celebration of Irish contributions to the world—music, literature, and community spirit.

Gift Giving on St Patrick’s Day

While the holiday is mostly about celebration, it can also be a great opportunity to surprise friends and family with a thoughtful gift. If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to spread some Irish cheer, eGift cards are a fantastic option.

Here are a few suggestions of digital gift cards that make perfect St Patrick’s Day presents:

• Pub & Bar eGift card: Treat someone to a taste of Ireland with traditional dishes at their local pub. Think hearty stews, soda bread or even a Guinness cake.
• Entertainment Group eGift card: Perfect for post-parade enjoyment. Fun time for all the family and friends at a choice of venues.
• Dan Murphy's eGift card: Perfect for selecting Irish whiskeys, Guinness, Jameson, or other Irish spirits to celebrate the occasion at home.
• Spotify eGift card: Help them set the mood with a playlist of Irish folk classics, traditional ballads, or even some modern Irish hits.

So, when 17th March arrives why not put on something green, join the festivities and celebrate the enduring legacy of St Patrick with family and friends.