A favorite country of ours, there is SO MUCH we could share. Here are just a few facts.

Green. Emerald Isle is the poetic name for Ireland due to its green countryside, first referred to in print by William Drennan in his poem “When Erin first rose”.

Saint Patrick, and Saint Patrick’s Day, might be the most famous Irish export. Saint Patrick is championed as the man who converted Ireland to Christianity, away from Pagan Gods. He is also credited with forming the Celtic Cross (click to download a coloring page), which looks like is a cross with a circle. Old Celtic Crosses can still be found in hundreds of cemeteries throughout Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England and has become a symbol of national pride.

One theory of how the first Celtic Cross was created was that the circle of the pagan sun god was combined with a cross of Jesus Christ to represent God’s light and life. Another possible origin, crosses carved out of stone were vulnerable to breaking due to their shape – so a theory is the artisans who crafted the crosses added the circle to strengthen them.

The circle is symbolic of eternity – emphasizes the eternal everlasting love of God demonstrated through Jesus sacrifice for our sins on the cross. Another meaning of the circle is the eternal hope of salvation found in the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Ireland has an incredible history and connection to music.

From Celtic ballads and Irish traditional music to the all-conquering rock and pop of U2, the Emerald Isle is known for her singers and songwriters. Sinead O’Connor. Enya. The Dubliners, The Chieftans and The Pogues are just a few of hundreds of bands and artists that celebrate this special brand of Irish music. Dirty Old Town, Black Velvet Band, The Auld Triangle and Danny Boy are known throughout the world alongside countless other songs that celebrate Irish culture and history. 

Guinness. Enough said.

Corned Beef and Cabbage with Soda Bread is the the traditional meal that our family enjoys on or near St. Patrick’s Day. Irish Soda Bread is a quick bread that does not require any yeast. Instead, all of its leavening comes from baking soda and buttermilk.

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