Celebrating St. Patrick

Get to know the saint behind the celebration with these fun, family-friendly recipes that recall his life and mission

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By Lacy Rabideau

With all the loud and crowded parades, green beer, leprechauns, and kelly-colored costumes, it can be easy to forget that St. Patrick’s Day commemorates a real man, and that the feast of St. Patrick — March 17 — marks the day of his death. In order to fully celebrate Patrick — the saint, the man, and the festivities — with food and crafts, it’s important to know a little about him.

When St. Patrick was only 16, he was kidnapped from his British homeland by Irish raiders, sold as a slave, and forced to work as a shepherd. He eventually escaped due to divine guidance, and later returned to Ireland as an ordained bishop. St. Patrick used a shamrock — the three-leaf variety — to explain the Trinity to the Irish people, using its three leaves to symbolize the concept of three divine persons of God.

St. Patrick’s Day is a great time to put together some festive and fun food as a way to celebrate the feast day of the patron saint of Ireland.

Shamrock Pinwheels

St. Patrick’s Shepherd’s Pie

1-Decade Shamrock Rosary Craft

Miter and Crosier Apple Cinnamon Treats

Trinity Meringue Cookies

St. Patrick Sugar Cookies

However you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year, remember the real reason for this wonderful, rich feast day. Happy celebrating!

Lacy Rabideau

Lacy Rabideau is a wife and the mother of three young children with another on the way! She loves homeschooling, crafting, and celebrating the liturgical year with her family. Find more of her family's adventures and craft ideas on her blog, CatholicIcing.com

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