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Lesser known facts about St. Patrick’s Day

• Blue, not green: St. Patrick’s original color was blue—green came later for Ireland’s lush landscapes and flag.
• Not Irish-born: St. Patrick wasn’t originally from Ireland, but he became its beloved missionary in the 4th century.
• Shamrocks & luck: St. Patrick used three-leaf shamrocks to explain the Holy Trinity, while four-leaf clovers later became symbols of luck.
• Historic parades: The first U.S. parade was in 1737—New York now hosts the world’s largest.
• Green river: Chicago has dyed its river green since the 1960s (vegetable-based dye, lasts ~5 hours!).
• Pubs once closed: Until the 1970s, Irish pubs had to shut for the holiday.
• Out of this world: Even astronauts celebrate with green meals on the ISS.

This March 17, wear green, sip a green mocktail, and share these fun facts while “being Irish” for a day!