We celebrate all things Irish with this fun holiday. Grab something green and let’s celebrate!
Steps
1. History.
While St. Patrick’s Day is a Christian holiday, historians believe Maewyn Succat (born 387 AD) was not originally a Christian. The story goes that he was kidnapped from Great Britain and forced into slavery in Ireland. Saint Patrick’s Day is observed on the 17th of March, the date of his death. Learn about this man and how he became the Patron Saint of Ireland.
2. Tales.
Learn some of the tales about St. Patrick. Find out about snakes, shamrocks as an explanation of the Holy Trinity and more.
3. Ireland.
Ireland and all things Irish are traditionally linked with St. Patrick’s Day. From shamrocks and leprechauns to the color green, we associate these with St. Patrick’s Day. What other things do you consider part of this holiday?
4. World.
This holiday is not limited to one country. Learn how other countries and people celebrate this holiday. Note any traditions that you would like to include in your own St. Patrick’s Day celebration. For example, check out how Chicago, Illinois celebrates this holiday.
5. Parades.
Many communities and cities have parades to celebrate this holiday. Parades started in New York in 1762. Explore St. Patrick’s Day parades and the ways the traditions of this holiday are interwoven into this celebration.
6. Visit pub.
Many pubs make special Irish dishes, dye drinks green and even serve beers that are Irish. Visit a pub to see what they do or create your own feast with Irish choices and green goodies.
7. Music.
Sing, listen or learn about Irish music. Don’t just look at traditional songs, but current Irish artists as well. Share the songs you find.
8. Crafts.
Green is the color of this holiday. Of course, you can use any of the colors in the Irish flag, but green is traditionally associated with St. Patrick’s Day. Explore green crafts or adjust a craft so it can reflect the holiday. Be sure to save the ones that really look like fun.
9. Activities.
Find some Irish games and activities or adapt some of your own to an Irish theme. Paint your snowman with green-tinted water, do some paper puzzles or anything else that fits into the Irish spirit. Be sure to keep track of those you really enjoy to add to your own holiday traditions.
10. Irish party.
Plan a St. Patrick’s party. Using any (and all) of the ideas you’ve found as you’ve explored this badge program, plan a party for friends and family to celebrate the holiday.
11. Share luck.
From your exploration, share the ideas you’ve liked the most. You can do this with a classroom, group, troop or even members of your family. Make a digital activity box to share. Get into the spirit of the holiday for more fun!
Supplements
SUPP_St Patrick_2in_12up_larajla
- Avery 2.5” round label printable, 12 up
SUPP_ St Patrick_Checklist_larajla
- Badge checklist
SUPP_Printable_St Patrick Traditions_larajla
- Worksheet to note what you do each year for St. Patrick’s Day
SUPP_Puzzle Fun_SC_St Patrick_larajla
- Puzzle Fun: Scramble – Valentine’s Day
SUPP_Puzzle Fun_WF St Patrick_larajla
- Puzzle Fun: Word Find – Valentine’s Day
SUPP_St Patrick Word List_larajla
- Words for using in your designs / creations for the holiday
Sites to Explore
- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Patrick
- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Patrick’s_Day
- www.timeanddate.com/holidays/us/st-patrick-day
- www.history.com/topics/st-patricks-day
- www.bhg.com/holidays/st-patricks-day
- fun.familyeducation.com/st.-patricks-day/holidays/32935.html
- www.marthastewart.com/274735/st-patricks-day-crafts-and-decorations/@center/307033/spring-holidays
- www.thecraftycrow.net/st-patricks-day
- www.thespruce.com/st-patricks-day-activities-3129346
- www.activityvillage.co.uk/st-patricks-day
Get the infographic here > larajla blog post
Get the PDFs of the badge program / supplements here > Full badge PDFs