The Truth About St. Patrick’s Day: Myths, Legends & Traditions

St. Patrick’s Day is more than just an excuse to wear green and sip on Guinness—it’s a celebration rooted in history, culture, and deep traditions. In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, we explore the true story of St. Patrick, debunk popular myths, and reflect on personal traditions that make this holiday so meaningful. Whether you’re Irish by blood or just for the day, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for March 17th.

The Real Story of St. Patrick

Most people assume St. Patrick was Irish, but the truth is, he was born in Britain in the late fourth century. At just 16, he was captured and enslaved in Ireland, where he worked as a shepherd. After escaping six years later, he felt called to return—not as a captive, but as a missionary spreading Christianity.

As Rich Bennett points out, “St. Patrick’s life was about resilience and faith. He didn’t just survive his hardships—he turned them into a mission that shaped Ireland’s history.” His efforts left a lasting legacy, transforming Irish religious traditions and making him a revered figure worldwide.

Debunking St. Patrick’s Day Myths

One of the most famous legends surrounding St. Patrick is that he banished all snakes from Ireland. However, there were never any snakes in Ireland to begin with! The “snakes” were likely a metaphor for pagan beliefs, which Patrick helped replace with Christianity.

Another common misconception is that blue was originally associated with St. Patrick, not green. The shift happened over time, influenced by Ireland’s nickname, “The Emerald Isle,” and the symbolism of the Irish flag.

“Every year, people wear green to avoid getting pinched by leprechauns,” Rich shares. “But originally, blue was St. Patrick’s color. The green came later, tied to Irish nationalism.”

How St. Patrick’s Day Became a Global Celebration

St. Patrick’s Day started as a religious feast day in Ireland but became a worldwide celebration thanks to Irish immigrants—particularly in the U.S. Cities like New York and Chicago played major roles in popularizing the holiday, with grand parades and even dyeing the Chicago River green.

Rich reflects on how his own family celebrates: “For us, it’s a day of honoring my father’s Irish heritage. We visit the cemetery, share stories, and yes, have a drink in his memory. It’s not just about the parties—it’s about connection and legacy.”

Across Maryland, local pubs like Loonies and The Dugout embrace the spirit of the holiday, serving up traditional Irish fare and live music. The communal energy makes it clear: St. Patrick’s Day is about more than just wearing green—it’s about honoring a rich cultural tradition.

Conclusion

St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of resilience, faith, and Irish heritage. Understanding the real history behind the holiday makes it even more meaningful. Whether you’re celebrating with family traditions, attending a parade, or simply raising a glass, take a moment to appreciate the unity and culture behind the day. And if you have your own St. Patrick’s Day traditions, Rich invites you to share them—because in the end, the best part of any holiday is the stories we create together.