Holidays have been a significant part of most cultures for hundreds of years.

Whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah, or another largely celebrated holiday, they have been a staple in many people’s annual traditions. But what about the forgotten holidays? The ones that slip through the cracks.

You may be thinking of holidays like Labor Day or Groundhog Day, but I am talking about an even more forgotten holiday.

Saint Patrick’s Day is arguably the best day of the year. A day filled with rainbows, gold coins, large meals filled with cabbage, and even large parades filled with Irish music.

The holiday is seen as a way to celebrate Saint Patrick, an iconic British man who was kidnapped and enslaved by Irish raiders in 400 A.D. He then escaped, and went back to preach to the people who kidnapped him, describing them as “snakes” and having “heathen practices.”

First off, who just casually escapes being kidnapped and enslaved? That alone makes this man quite remarkable.

But he also willingly goes back to change the ways of his kidnappers as he knows that what they do is wrong. No normal person returns to a place of danger so casually, yet he does. Pretty iconic.

Aside from Saint Patrick himself, the holiday has so many wonderful practices to participate in.

Let’s start with the attire. The custom of wearing green and Shamrocks is a staple for this holiday, originating from the viewpoint that the Shamrock is a sacred plant in Ireland symbolizing the Holy Trinity in Christianity, the faith practiced by Saint Patrick, and wearing green to symbolize the landscapes of Ireland.

We also can’t forget the Leprechauns. The Irish magical creatures that originated from Celtic Fairies are known for their pinching habits. The same little creatures that you tried to catch on Saint Patrick’s Day back in elementary school.

Last and the best part in my opinion – the parades. Large parades are a very common custom to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.

These parades consist of large green and gold floats, loud Irish music, and LOTS of dancing. These parades are like large parties down the main streets of towns and cities, illuminating cheer and fun.

All around, it is a joyous environment to be a part of when walking down the street on Saint Patrick’s Day.

We need to shine a light on this holiday like it truly deserves before it is fully forgotten.

So put on your green, grab your fiddle, and be ready for March 17th.