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St. Patrick’s Day

St Patrick's day falls on the 17 of March, every year. It's celebrated throughout Ireland, with a great passion. It's observed by Irish people all over the world as well, however doesn't warrant a holiday anywhere else.

Upcoming Dates For St Patrick's Day

Falling on March 17, each year, St Patrick's Day can be easy to follow along with. However, if St Patrick's Day falls on a Saturday or Sunday in Ireland, the observation is held on the following Monday. Here are the upcoming dates for Northern Ireland:

  • Friday, March 17, 2017
  • Saturday, March 17, 2018 - Observed on Monday, March 19, 2018
  • Sunday, March 17, 2019 - Observed on Monday, March 18, 2019
  • Tuesday, March 17, 2020
  • Wednesday, March 17, 2021
  • Thursday, March 17, 2022
  • Friday, March 17, 2023
  • Sunday, March 17, 2024 - Observed on Monday, March 18, 2024
  • Monday, March 17, 2025

Where Is St Patrick's Day Considered a Holiday?

Certain Irish pubs throughout Europe also have St Patrick's Day celebrations, where there is a heavy background. For most, it is just another day - there is no time off work and schools run normally. The celebrations come in after work, where Irish pubs are filled with cheering and celebrations. These celebrations are often held during lunch breaks as well by Irish people. In Ireland, it is a bank holiday and everything is closed. There is no public transportation, or it is limited. Also, many shops and stores will be closed - though most pubs and places to drink will remain open. It's a good day for business.

Festivities & Events St Patrick's Day

In Belfast, there is a large parade every year - however the size of the celebration depends on the funding received from the local council. Since there are many who believe Ireland should remain a part of the UK, there are many who won't celebrate. Everyone who believes Ireland should be part of a United Ireland celebrate the day passionately. Unfortunately, the funding is entirely dependent on the point-of-view of the council in control each year. In smaller cities with a heavy Irish population, there are celebrations. These celebrations even spread across the water in Canada, where many bars have St Patrick's Day celebrations as well. Often, drinking is the traditional celebration of the Irish people.

A Brief History About St Patrick's Day

St Patrick's Day celebrates the patron saint, St Patrick. The celebration was originally rooted in religion, marking the work of St Patrick. It became a public holiday in all of Ireland in 1903. Originally, pubs weren't allowed to be open either. The rule was changed in the 1970's to reflect adequate celebrations. The date is often moved around for religious reasons, but it's celebrated on March 17 for everyone else.