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St. Patrick's Day

Posted by Nancy Mulheron- Morrall on 17th Feb 2016

With Valentine's Day over, all eyes (not only Irish) are on St. Patrick's Day! Check out our great selection of St. Patrick's Day clothing and Irish Food to help you celebrate!

Saint Patrick's Day, is a cultural and religious celebration held on March 17th, the traditional death date of St. Patrick. The day commemorates St. Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.    

What began as a religious feast day for the patron saint of Ireland, has now become known for parades, fairs, parties and most popular, wearing of the color green.  The shamrock is a popular symbol seen on St. Patrick's Day.  This iconic Irish symbol was used by St. Patrick to explain the holy trinity.

You can walk in the footsteps of St. Patrick when visiting Ireland. From Hill of Slane in Co. Meath to Downpatrick in Co. Down, here are a few places to trace the steps of Ireland's patron saint.

Slemish Mountain is where St. Patrick spent his years as a slave, herding sheep.  He also found God on this same mountain with sweeping, inspiring views.  

Hill of Slane, Co. Meath

While druids were celebrating a pagan feast with the ritual Bealtaine fire on the Hill of Tara, County Meath, Patrick chose to light his own paschal fire on the neighboring Hill of Slane.

 

Croagh Patrick, Co. Mayo

Every year, on the last Sunday of July, thousands of barefoot people make the annual pilgrimage to the top of Croagh Patrick.  It was on this mountain that Patrick fasted for 40 days during lent. 

St. Patrick Centre, Co. Down

This St. Patrick Centre is the only permanent exhibit in the world celebrating the patron saint of Ireland.  Through movies, graphics and stories, the centre brings the history of St. Patrick throughout his life.

Down Cathedral, Co. Down

Down Cathedral is the final resting of St. Patrick who died in 461 A.D.