What Is St Patrick's Day? 17 March, Explained

September 6, 2026

St Patrick's Day falls on 17 March, the feast day of the patron saint of Ireland. It is a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland and in Northern Ireland, and it is marked with parades in cities across Britain, the United States and beyond.

It began as a religious feast day and grew, largely through the Irish diaspora, into the international celebration of Irish culture it is now.

Here is who St Patrick was, what happens on the day, and what to write if you're sending something.

The date and the saint

This quick history guide suits curious minds wanting to understand the origin of the celebrations before the seventeenth of March arrives. It is perfect when you need a quick refresher on the historical roots of the event. A helpful tip is to share these simple origin details with children over breakfast to start the morning with a fun learning moment.

17 March, the traditional date of St Patrick's death.
A public holiday in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Patrick was a fifth-century missionary, born in Roman Britain.
The shamrock is linked to him through the story of him using it to explain the Trinity.

How it's marked

This overview of global traditions suits anyone looking to join the lively festivities, whether you are planning a family outing or a night out. Use this guide when coordinating your itinerary for the day. A practical tip is to check local community timetables online a week early, as popular venues tend to reach capacity very quickly.

Parades, the largest in Dublin, New York, Birmingham and Manchester.
Wearing green, and pinning a shamrock.
Irish music and dancing in pubs and community halls.
Buildings lit green, from Dublin landmarks to town halls across the world.
A pint of stout, in enormous quantities.

What to write in a St Patrick's Day card

These message ideas suit well-wishers sending festive cards to Irish friends, family, or neighbours near and far. Use them when sitting down to write your greetings in the week leading up to the feast day. For the best result, match the sentiment to your recipient, choosing a cheeky note for close friends and a warmer message for relatives.

Happy St Patrick's Day. Have one for me.
Wishing you the luck of the Irish and a decent pint.
Happy Paddy's Day — go easy, or don't.
Thinking of you today and every day you make me laugh.
Sláinte. Have a brilliant day.

Key things to remember

Post by 14 March if the card is going to Ireland.
Keep the accent jokes out of it unless you know them very well.
A funny card and a pint arranged for the weekend beats a themed gift.

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Frequently asked questions

When is St Patrick's Day?

17 March every year, the feast day of St Patrick.

Is St Patrick's Day a bank holiday in the UK?

It is a public holiday in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, but not in England, Scotland or Wales.

Why is green worn on St Patrick's Day?

Green is associated with Ireland and with the shamrock, which legend says St Patrick used to explain the Trinity.

What is a good example of what is St Patrick's Day? The date, the saint and how it's marked?

"17 March, the traditional date of St Patrick's death." is one of 14 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

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