Traditionally, Saint Patrick’s Day is associated with all things Irish and green. Saint Patrick’s Day is also known to celebrate spiritual renewal and luck. The Apostle of Ireland described himself as a “most humble-minded man”. Saint Patrick is credited for bringing Christianity to Ireland, while driving away snakes and serpents, the symbol of Pagans. Theory suggests that Saint Patrick died on March 17, 460 A.D. In Ireland most businesses are closed on this religious holiday with the exception to pubs and restaurants. The celebrations continue worldwide as many communities attend parades, eat food drink, play games and some may even dye their rivers or streams green!
The West Coast’s largest Saint Patrick’s Day celebration is San Francisco’s Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival. San Francisco’s City Hall raises the Irish flag early in March to mark the week ahead of celebrations. The main event takes place March 14th at 11:30am at the corner of Market and Second streets. Bay Area Irish communities including youth organizations, schools, various culture groups and the San Francisco Police and Fire Department march in the parade. Marching bands play music as the colorful, vibrant floats make their way through the city to Civic Center Plaza. The fun continues in front of City Hall after the parade, at the memorable Saint Patrick’s Day festival.