St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most recognizable and beloved holidays in the world. It is celebrated annually on March 17 and is dedicated to St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who, according to legend, brought Christianity to the Green Island and drove out all the snakes from there.
History of the holiday
St. Patrick lived in the 5th century and played a key role in the Christianization of Ireland. Although he was originally from Britain, his life is closely connected with the Irish lands. March 17 is the date of his death, and it is on this day that Irish people around the world honor the memory of the saint, while celebrating their culture, music, and identity.
Initially, St. Patrick’s Day was a religious holiday, but over time it turned into a mass cultural event. Today it is celebrated not only in Ireland, but also in the USA, Canada, Australia, Argentina, and many other countries.
Celebration Traditions
St. Patrick’s Day is accompanied by many bright and cheerful traditions that make this holiday truly unique:
- Green is the color of Ireland and clover. On this day, it is customary to wear green clothes and accessories. Even buildings, bridges and fountains around the world are illuminated in green.
- Shamrock (clover) is one of the main symbols of the holiday. According to legend, St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish.
- Parades – colorful processions with music, dancing and carnival floats are held in cities around the world. The largest parade is held in New York, as well as in Dublin, the capital of Ireland.
- Dancing and live music – traditional Irish dancing and music using bagpipes, fiddles and drums create a special atmosphere of fun and unity.
- Festive food and drinks – many pubs have dishes like kale and bacon, Irish stew, soda bread and, of course, Guinness – the Irish’s favorite beer – on their menus.
- “Pinch if you’re not green” – there is a funny tradition in English-speaking countries: if someone is not wearing green on this day, they can be lightly pinched.
How they celebrated in Bar in 2025
In the city of Bar (Montenegro), St. Patrick’s Day was celebrated with a special atmosphere this year, but not without changes. Due to the tragic events in North Macedonia associated with national mourning, the celebrations were postponed from Monday, March 17, to Thursday, March 20.
Despite the shift in date, the holiday in the Irish pub Dublin was bright and warm. Irish music was playing throughout the evening, from traditional folk tunes to upbeat modern hits with Celtic influences. The atmosphere was truly festive, despite the more subdued tone of the beginning of the week.
The pub prepared special gifts for its guests – everyone who ordered a Guinness beer received a branded souvenir, including green hats, bracelets and beer coins, coins that could be exchanged for a glass of beer. And for all visitors there was a 50% discount on draught light beer throughout the evening – a gesture that was especially warmly received.
The meaning of the holiday today
St. Patrick’s Day is not just an excuse to drink a pint of dark beer. It is a celebration of Irish identity, hospitality and fun. Even in small towns far from Ireland, such as Bar, it unites people, gives smiles and creates moments of real good magic.
