St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland, was born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century. He was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He escaped but returned to convert the Irish to Christianity. By the time of his death on March 17, 461, he had established monasteries, churches, and schools. Many legends grew up around him—for example, that he drove the snakes out of Ireland and used the shamrock to explain the Trinity. Ireland came to celebrate his day with religious services and feasts.

In the US, cities with large numbers of Irish immigrants staged the most extensive celebrations, which included elaborate parades. Boston held its first St. Patrick’s Day parade in 1737, followed by New York City in 1762. Since 1962 Chicago has colored its river green to mark the holiday.

In Gulf Shores we have a tradition of a PUB CRAWL!

If you don't feel that the crawl is your cup of tea (or pint of ale), you can always cook up a traditional meal to celebrate. Corned beef and cabbage is the staple for dining on St. Patrick's Day.

Don't forget the “wearing of the green”—sporting an item of green clothing or a shamrock, the Irish national plant.

A FEW ST. PATRICK"S DAY QUOTES:

• Irish you a happy St. Patrick's Day!
• Gingers unite!
• Tell a leprechaun you love them today.
• It ain’t over 'til it’s clover.
• If it ain't brogue, don't fix it.
• Keep calm and leprechaun.
• He's my pinch charming.
• Don't worry, beer happy.
• Magically delicious!
• Who needs luck when you have plenty of charm?
• The leprechauns made me do it!

ANOTHER GULF SHORES TRADITION IS SAND CASTLES: