From Roman Britain to present day Sydney: a brief history of St. Paddy's Day

It may come as a surprise to readers that St. Patrick hailed from the shores of Britain, not Ireland. Born into a Roman family, Patrick lived at home until the age of 16 when Irish raiders tore him away and sold him into slavery where he spent the next six years as a shepherd. It was during this time he turned to faith, finding comfort in the Lord and Saviour. His return to Britain was short-lived, not because of imprisonment, but religious duty. Years later, he travelled to Ireland as a missionary, sharing God’s work to all those who would listen.  

During his 40-year roam through the Emerald Isle, stories spread of his miracles. Tales of banished snakes, people raised from the dead and inexplicable swine provisions for hungry sailors in desolate areas. Most notably, Patrick presented the shamrock to non-believing Celts, noting the three leaves bound by one stalk. He would explain this as the symbol of the Holy Trinity – God the father, the son and the Holy Spirit. After decades of travel, Patrick died in Saul (the village where he built the first Irish church) on 17 March 461. 

Surprisingly, Ireland was not the first home to St Paddy’s Day celebrations. In fact, the earliest recorded parade was held in 1601. Its location was the land where St. Augustine now lies in the north of Florida. Following that, Irish emigrants – who journeyed across the Atlantic to the New World – created the party atmosphere the national holiday holds today. From the streets of Boston in 1737 to New York in 1762 and beyond, those of Irish descent across the USA celebrated their heritage with pride and esteem.  

Now, St. Paddy’s Day is a holiday filled with momentous joy across the globe. From Sydney in Australia to the Irish capital of Dublin, pubs open their doors for a day of Guinness, revelry and traditional music whilst streets fill with leprechaun costumes, clovers and merry smiles. 

Ireland remains a favoured destination for travellers around the world. And with some luck (of the Irish!), you’ll secure your place on one of two splendid Back-Roads Touring tours which take you along cragged coastlines, through quaint villages, cracking cities and even further.  

Plan your Irish adventure today and discover The Emerald Isle or Corners of Southern Ireland (or both for an extended journey across the country) in 2024. Be quick! These tours are likely to sell out.