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March 17 is Saint Patrick's Day or the Feast of Saint Patrick (Lá Fhéile Pádraig), a cultural and religious celebration held on the traditional death date of Saint Patrick (c. AD 385–461), the foremost patron saint of Ireland. It commemorates both the saint and the arrival of Christianity to Ireland and celebrates Irish culture in general. It was made an official Christian feast day in the 17th century by the Roman Catholic Church.

The display of symbols of Irish heritage, display of shamrocks, and wearing green are common observances on this day. The holiday's tradition of consuming alcohol is partly a result of the temporary lifting of restrictions on Lent in Christian countries. Saint Patrick's Day is celebrated across the world in more countries than any other national festival.

External:

Saint Patrick's Day (Wikipedia)
Saint Patrick (Wikipedia)

See also

• March (month)