March 17 marked St. Patrick’s day this year, a day full of traditions and customs for many LOHS students that most people may not know about. While the holiday reminds many of leprechauns, wearing green and getting pinched, it also has historical value. 

As a Patron Saint of Ireland, Maewyn Succat was a Roman citizen who later became a priest, changing his name to Patricius, although he is known today as none other than St. Patrick. By embracing the spread of Christianity and demonstrating the essence of luck, the Church recognized a Feast Day in 1631 to honor him, eventually evolving into the holiday taking place on March 17 each year. Around 1762, the festivity was introduced to the United States by Irish soldiers and indentured servants serving in the British army, along with the first St. Patrick’s Day parade taking place in New York City the same year.

2024 marks 262 years of the holiday being recognized in the United States, and along with that, many members of the Laker community practice their own traditions and festivities to commemorate St. Patrick’s Day.

Senior Chapin Gustafson, who has an Irish heritage, shares a unique family tradition of drinking green milk and “having green eggs and ham in the morning” to celebrate the occasion each year. 

Similarly, junior Samm Leverich has relished the holiday since birth through festive foods: “Every St. Patrick’s Day, my mom makes green pancakes and green milk.” An additional family tradition passed on by her aunt and Irish background includes receiving themed keepsakes such as gold coins and Dollar Store necklaces. “We wear them and then we all gather for dinner and eat green themed food,” said Leverich.

As traditions evolve over time, St. Patrick’s Day remains an enjoyable holiday symbolizing fun festivities and meaningful heritage for several people at LOHS.