Why Do People Drink on St. Patrick's Day?

Every March 17th, pubs fill up for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, and friends gather for pints. But how did this holiday become such a major drinking occasion, especially in the United States? Let's explore the origins and evolution of this spirited tradition.

The Origins of St. Patrick's Day

While many associate the day with green beer and lively parties, the holiday honors St. Patrick, a 5th-century missionary who brought Christianity to Ireland. Recognized as Ireland's patron saint, the day marks the anniversary of his death. Historically observed with feasts since the 17th century, it was known as the Feast of St. Patrick.

So how did a religious feast transform into a day of heavy drinking? The answer lies in a historical twist involving Lenten traditions.

The Link Between St. Patrick's Day and Drinking

To understand the connection, we need to look at Ireland's relationship with alcohol, particularly beer.

Beer in Irish History

Beer brewing in Ireland dates back thousands of years, with whiskey also being a common product. In the 18th century, the Irish parliament removed taxes on beer to promote it over whiskey, hoping to reduce excessive whiskey consumption. Brewers were encouraged to use local ingredients, boosting Irish beer production and eventual global exports.

The Lenten Loophole

Most Irish people in the 17th century observed Lent, a period of fasting and abstinence from indulgences like meat and alcohol. Since St. Patrick's Day falls during Lent, the church made an exception: all Lenten restrictions were lifted for March 17th. This gave people a sanctioned break to enjoy beer and other treats before resuming their fast.

St. Patrick's Day in the United States

The holiday's popularity soared in the U.S. during the mid-19th century, following an influx of Irish immigrants escaping the potato famine. They brought their traditions with them, and Americans eagerly joined in. The first St. Patrick's Day parade was actually held in the U.S., not Ireland.

As Irish culture took root, so did Irish beer. The holiday gradually shifted from a religious observance to a broader celebration of Irish heritage, with drinking remaining a central part of the festivities.

Today, St. Patrick's Day is one of the biggest beer-drinking holidays in the U.S., rivaling Independence Day and New Year's Eve. Consider these facts:

• Over 30 countries celebrate St. Patrick's Day worldwide.
• Approximately 13 million pints of Guinness are consumed globally on March 17th.
• Americans spend around $6.16 billion on St. Patrick's Day celebrations.
• In 2024, nearly a million people gathered in Chicago for the parade and river dyeing ceremony.

The Story Behind Green Beer

While traditional drinks included Irish whiskey, stout, and cider, green beer has become a modern staple. The trend started in 1914 when a host dyed his beer using "wash blue," a laundry whitener that turned the beer toxic. Today, food coloring is used, but it's not without concerns.

Common ingredients in green food coloring include:

• Propylene glycol (used in flavor preservation and polyester production)
• Yellow 5 (linked to hyperactivity in children)
• Blue 1 (associated with hypersensitivity reactions)
• Propylparaben (a preservative)

While generally safe in small amounts, large quantities can cause allergic reactions or digestive issues, compounding the effects of alcohol.

Risks of St. Patrick's Day Celebrations

Excessive drinking on this holiday carries several dangers:

• Binge Drinking: St. Patrick's Day ranks third for binge drinking, increasing risks of blackouts, liver disease, and heart damage.
• Accidents: Drunk-driving fatalities spike; from 2017–2021, 272 lives were lost in alcohol-related crashes over the holiday period.
• Health Reactions: Allergies to food coloring can occur with high consumption.
• Environmental Impact: Dyeing rivers green, though claimed safe, may strain local ecosystems.

Enjoying St. Patrick's Day Without Alcohol

You can still join the fun without drinking. Here are some alcohol-free ideas:

• Green Mocktails: Sip on refreshing cucumber-lime or iced coconut green tea mocktails.
• Cultural Activities: Explore Irish music, art, or films.
• Green Exercise: Get active outdoors with a walk, hike, or bike ride in nature.

While others nurse hangovers, you'll wake up on March 18th feeling refreshed and healthy.

Conclusion

St. Patrick's Day has evolved from a religious feast into a global celebration often centered around drinking. By choosing non-alcoholic options like mocktails, cultural activities, or outdoor exercise, you can enjoy the holiday safely and mindfully. Skip the binge drinking, and you'll have better luck staying happy and healthy.