As adults, we can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a pint of Guinness and a plate of bacon and cabbage, but what about the children?
Sure, they can enjoy some of the same treats but if you want to help your children recognize and appreciate the significance of this beloved holiday, why not take some time to teach them about Irish history and culture?
Why We Celebrate St. Patrick's Day
Every March 17th honours our patron saint with an unmatched national holiday celebration.
On St Patrick’s Day, Ireland comes alive in an explosion of vibrant colour and compelling culture – it is a day for traditional music sessions, cèilidh (Irish dance parties), costumes, comedy, and great fun at pubs as we also showcase Irish pride.
2023 marks the second year since Covid after reinstating the holiday parade throughout Ireland. Of course, we are all looking forward to the festivities and bonding over our history and traditions.
Legends, Myths, and Facts
From the language to St. Patrick’s Day activities, a lot has changed, either by adopting modern culture or neglecting our traditions. Once upon a time, St. Patrick’s Day was as simple as pinning muddy shamrock to our clothes and going to mass.
Not to mention the blurring lines between legend, myths, and facts. Well, that is a story for another day or maybe, this year’s celebrations as you revisit Irish folklore with your children.
Instead of simply sharing Irish folklore and family stories, you can create a family digital time capsule to safely keep them for future generations to reference on Paddy’s day.
How You Can Use St. Patrick’s Day to Share Our Irish History
This special day is a celebration of Irish heritage. It is also an ideal time for families to teach their children about Irish history while making memories together. Here are a few fun ways to do just that.
Cooking Traditional Irish Cuisine Together
Nothing says St. Patrick’s Day quite like traditional Irish cuisine.
Why not cook classic dishes together as a family, such as a shepherd’s pie, colcannon, boxty pancakes, or soda bread?
Chances are, your children will learn more about our unique culinary culture while they help you in the kitchen, they may even discover a new favourite food.
Exploring Irish Music & Dance
Irish music and dance are incredibly vibrant and expressive art forms that tell stories of the joys and sorrows of the past.
Spend some time listening to traditional Celtic music together as a family.
You can watch YouTube videos of traditional jigs and reels performed by professional dancers, you may even be tempted to join in on the fun yourself!
If you feel adventurous, you could even sign your family up for online lessons with an experienced teacher to add fun to your St.. Patrick’s family party at home.
Sharing Stories about Ireland
From ancient myths and legends to modern tales set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes and centuries-old castles, there is no shortage of exciting stories from Ireland for children to explore their history.
Take some time out this St. Patrick’s Day to read stories aloud together as a family. If you are gathering with grandparents, they can share their childhood parade experiences, history, and traditions of this day.
For parents, extra time out with your kids this Paddy’s season is worthwhile for teaching them something new. It is an excellent opportunity for all generations in your family, from grandparents down to grandchildren, to come together over shared experiences to celebrate old traditions in modern culture.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2023 by sharing your love for Ireland with those closest to you.
