St. Patrick's Day, celebrated on March 17th, is a holiday that is synonymous with green beer. But have you ever stopped to wonder why we drink green beer on this holiday? In this article, we will explore the history and traditions behind this beloved St. Patrick's Day tradition.
The Origins of St. Patrick's Day
Before we dive into the history of green beer, it's important to understand the origins of St. Patrick's Day. This holiday is named after Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Saint Patrick was a Christian missionary who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17th, the day of Saint Patrick's death.
The Tradition of Green
Green has long been associated with Ireland and St. Patrick's Day. This is because green is the color of the shamrock, a symbol of Ireland and a plant that is said to have been used by Saint Patrick to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish people. Additionally, green is the color of spring, which is often associated with new life and rebirth.
The History of Green Beer
The tradition of drinking green beer on St. Patrick's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1914, a New York City bar owner named Dr. Thomas Hayes Curtin wanted to attract more customers to his bar on St. Patrick's Day. He decided to add a few drops of green food coloring to his beer to make it stand out and attract attention. The idea was a hit and soon other bars began to follow suit.
The Science Behind Green Beer
Today, green beer is made by adding a few drops of green food coloring to a light-colored beer, such as a pilsner or lager. The food coloring is typically added to the beer after it has been poured into a glass, but some bars may add it directly to the keg. The amount of food coloring used can vary, but it is typically a small amount to achieve a light green color.
The Tradition Continues
Today, drinking green beer on St. Patrick's Day has become a widespread tradition, not just in the United States but in other countries as well. In Ireland, however, the tradition of drinking green beer is not as popular. Instead, the Irish tend to stick to their traditional Irish stouts and ales on this holiday.
Other Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day
While drinking green beer may be the most well-known tradition on St. Patrick's Day, there are many other ways to celebrate this holiday. Some popular activities include attending parades, wearing green clothing, and cooking traditional Irish dishes. You can also participate in the tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green, which has been a tradition since 1962.
So, why do we drink green beer on St. Patrick's Day? It's a fun and festive way to celebrate this holiday and honor the traditions of Ireland. Whether you choose to drink green beer or stick to your favorite Irish stout, St. Patrick's Day is a time to come together and celebrate the rich culture and history of Ireland. Cheers!
Allen Farrish from the Tie Dyed Shop
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