St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner on March 17th. Did you know that in Mexico, the Irish are honored as martyrs of liberty and freedom? In fact, Mexico pays tribute to the “San Patricios” on St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th and again on September 13th, which was the anniversary date that the United States captured Mexico City in 1847.
St. Patrick’s Day History
Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. Born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century, Saint Patrick was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. His death was recorded on March 17, 461, and by that time he had made a lasting contribution to Ireland by establishing monasteries, churches, and schools throughout the country. During the Mexican-American War during 1846 to 1848, a unit of 175 Irish immigrants and other expatriates of European descent, joined together under John Riley to help Mexico fight against the United States. Known as the Saint Patrick’s Battalion, these men switched sides to fight alongside Mexicans against an invasion by the United States. Today, St. Patrick’s Day is a great way to toast the Irish and celebrate with friends and family. Here are some ways you can honor the Irish in Mexico on St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th.
Wear a Sprig of Shamrock or Green Clothing
Shamrocks are a well known symbol of Ireland and part of the St. Patrick’s Day traditions include wearing a shamrock. Whether you are of Irish descent or not, wear a shamrock for the day and join in the good natured celebrations of Ireland. Some people may even wear a fresh sprig of shamrock plant on their clothing, which the Irish call “the wearing of the green”. If finding a shamrock is too difficult, another fun tradition is to simply wear the color green in your clothing. One of the national colors of Ireland which is reminiscent of the green rolling hills of the lush country, wearing green has become a popular custom for those wanting to join in on the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. In fact, if you don’t wear at least something green on St. Patrick’s Day, you may be subjected to getting pinched! So look out and stay safe by sporting a green shirt or outfit on March 17th.
Drink Irish Beer or Whiskey
What St. Patrick’s Day party is complete without imbibing in some tasty alcoholic beverages? Two of the most popular drinks from Ireland include Guinness beer, which is a dark frothy stout beer that has a huge fan base across the world. With its creamy head and hearty taste, a Guinness beer is almost like a meal in itself. Order one on St. Patrick’s Day and toast the Irish! Is whiskey more your style? Some of the best whiskeys in the world come from Ireland. Request your whiskey on the rocks and slowly sip and swirl to savor this potent and tasty liquor.
If you find yourself at Garza Blanca in Mexico this March 17th, head to one of the excellent on site restaurants and request an Irish beer or whiskey to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as they do in Ireland. Sláinte!
