St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated each year on March 17, the anniversary of St. Patrick’s death in the fifth century. For more than 1,000 years this Irish holiday has evolved into a celebration of the Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing, drinking and an abundance of green. The first parade took place not in Ireland but in the United States. During the day of March 17, 1762, Irish military soldiers marched through the streets of New York City. With music playing and people dancing all around, the parade allowed for the soldiers to reconnect with their Irish roots and with other Irishmen serving in the English army. Each year, close to 3 million people come together to line the 1.5-mile parade route to watch the unique floats make their way down the streets.

One of the most important parts of a celebration can be traced back to the food.

Food Traditions

On this day each one of you can be Irish, in or out of the kitchen. St. Patrick’s Day is a day for celebration to the Irish community, history and traditions. Incorporating this Grandma’s Irish Soda Bread from Sally’s Baking Addiction into your day can be a simple yet delicious additive. One of the earliest recognitions of soda bread was during 1916 in England. The editor of a magazine was challenged to come up with a way to bring poor soft wheat into bread. After many failed attempts with his baker, he was able to come up with a balance by using half wheat and half mashed potatoes in place of yeast.

Dessert Recipes

In addition to the festivities, some of the most appetizing desserts can come together nicely with your meal. An Ireland native, Gemma Stafford, co-creator of “Bigger Bolder Baking” blog, recently attended the “National Festival of Breads” hosted in Manhattan, Kansas. Along with bringing her roots to the United States, she also brought her favorite Irish desserts to share with everyone on this special day.

More Recipes

Looking for other fun shamrock-inspired recipes? You might want to try these Shamrock Chocolate Covered Pretzels or Lucky Shamrocks.

Fun Facts

Want to know more about St. Patrick’s Day? Check out these Fun Facts.