St. Patrick’s Day is near. This year, St. Patrick’s day is on Thursday, March 17, so don’t forget to wear green or you’ll get pinched! St. Patrick’s Day commemorates the entrance of Christianity in Ireland, as well as the Irish heritage and culture in general. Public parades and festivals are common on this day, as are céilis and the wearing of green clothing or shamrocks.

St. Patrick’s day is actually based on an actual person. Saint Patrick is the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland. He is credited with successfully spreading Christianity throughout Ireland—hence the Christian celebration of his life and name. However, many legends surround him, some of which are based on fact. Did he play a significant influence in the conversion of Ireland to Christianity? Without a doubt. Is it true that he exterminated all the snakes in Ireland? Snakes were not native to Ireland to begin with, so probably not.

Though St Patrick’s day seems all religious, similar to Christmas, people don’t need to be Christian to celebrate the holiday. Green is a color that represents good luck so don’t be afraid to wear a bold color like green. People don’t need to wear all green on that day, at least just one item of clothing or accessory should be green, whether that be a tie, socks, necklaces, makeup, earrings, etc.

At one point, blue was the traditional color but over the years they’ve changed it to green, and it’s been that way for a while now. Also, St. Patrick’s Day is the traditional day for planting peas, even in the snow! Cabbage seeds are often planted today, too, and old-time farmers believed that to make them grow well, you needed to plant them while wearing your nightclothes.

Holiday traditions are always exciting and unique in their own ways, that’s what makes holidays, holidays. Also is spending time with loved ones or participating in the holiday. It’s seriously best to follow along holiday traditions especially St Patrick’s Day or you might seriously get pinched.