St. Patrick's Day honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
St. Patrick was a real person, born in Britain in the 4th century.
He was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken to Ireland as a slave.
After several years, he escaped and became a Christian priest.
He then returned to Ireland to spread the Christian faith.
The holiday of St. Patrick's Day began in the 17th century in Ireland.
It was originally a religious holiday.
The first St. Patrick's Day parade took place in New York City in 1762.
Today, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated around the world with parades, green clothing, and traditional Irish food and drink.
It has become a secular holiday and is not just celebrated by the Irish.