Kid-friendly way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
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EmailIdeas to make your St. Patrick’s Day celebration family-friendly.
Information about St. Patrick’s Day can be found in many history books. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and has a long history of teaching Irishmen and women about Catholicism and Christianity. He shared many passions with the people of Ireland and incorporated the many traditions and Irish culture into his everyday life.
America started celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in 1762 when some homesick Irish soldiers organized a parade with Irish music that included bagpipes and drums. Today, many large cities like Chicago, Illinois, and small cities like Clare, Michigan, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with parades and festivities.
Ireland has some strong cultural customs that come out during St. Patrick’s Day. The flag for Ireland is green, white and orange. Many people say the phrase “the luck of the Irish.” Four-leaf clovers are a symbol seen around St. Patrick’s Day as well as rainbows and pots of gold.
Michigan State University Extension suggests some fun ways to celebration St. Patrick’s Day as a family:
- Wear the color green on March 17.
- Have a fun and healthy green smoothie that includes spinach or kale.
- Watch a local parade and enjoy the communities’ festivities.
- Research some Irish customs like food and Irish blessing.
- Go to the library and find a book about St. Patrick and read together.
Spend time together in March talking and learning about St. Patrick and Ireland. Find ways to eat together with some famous Irish food and wear green to celebrate.
To learn more about programs MSU Extension has to offer parents and families, visit your local MSU Extension office.
