2024 St. Patricks Day Parade San Francisco 8 Editorial Photo

Despite the story of St. Patrick ridding Ireland of snakes, making him the Patron Saint of Ireland, it is just that, a story. Historic fossil records indicate Ireland never had snakes, ever. He is considered the Patron Saint of Ireland for bringing Christianity to the island, using the shamrock, the abundant three leaf clover found there, to teach about the Christian Holy Trinity. Although St. Patrick himself was a fifth century figure, he was first celebrated in Ireland in the 1600's. The first actual parade honoring him was held in 1601, in what is today St. Augustine Florida, while it was still Spanish. From there it only spread throughout the country, as it grew and more and more Irish immigrants came to the United States. St. Patrick is celebrated on 17 March throughout the world, the date of his death. This, the 173rd celebration in San Francisco was most enjoyed 16 March 2024. This year's theme was for unity, with all the usual parades with floats, and booths and Irish music, not just for Irish Catholics and Protestants, but for all peoples around the world, in peace and harmony.