5 Interesting Facts About Saint Patrick’s Day You Might Not Know

Ann-Margaret Wagner • Mar 01, 2023

Saint Patrick’s Day is the one day of the year when everyone is a little bit Irish! Whether you’re decked out in green from head to toe, hoisting a pint of Guinness in the local pub, or just looking for a reason to have a little fun, Saint Patrick’s Day is the perfect excuse.

But while we all know the basics of this beloved holiday, plenty of interesting facts might surprise you. In this blog, we’ll share five interesting facts about Saint Patrick’s Day you might not know that will make you look like a true expert at your next celebration.

So, grab a shamrock, sit back, and get ready to learn something new about one of the world’s most popular holidays! And when you’re finished reading, join us on March 17th at Eddie’s on the lake and fill your plate with a traditional Saint Patrick’s Day meal. You can also call us at (704) 799-2090 with any questions about our lunch menu , dinner menu , specials , dessert , brunch , drinks , and off-premises catering.

1. Guinness Is the Most Popular Drink on Saint Patrick’s Day

Guinness, the dry Irish stout that’s been brewed in Dublin, Ireland, since 1759, is the drink of choice for many on Saint Patrick’s Day! More pints of this dark and creamy brew are consumed on Saint Patrick’s Day than on any other day of the year. The slightly bitter taste pairs perfectly with a hearty meal or can be sipped on its own for a delicious treat. Get ready to raise a pint of this famous Irish stout and join the celebration!

The “Perfect Pour” of Guinness Takes 119.5 Seconds

A properly poured Guinness requires a precisely timed pour and rest period, taking exactly 119.5 seconds to complete. The first step is to tilt the glass at a 45-degree angle and fill it to three-quarters full. Then, the glass is set down and allowed to settle for exactly 119.5 seconds. During this time, the beer will form a creamy head, and the flavors will meld together.

The final step is to top off the glass, filling it to the rim. This slow pour process is a rite of passage for any bartender and is essential for achieving the perfect Guinness pour. The result is a creamy and well-balanced beer that is the epitome of Irish brewing.

2. The Shamrock Is Not the Official Symbol of Ireland

For centuries, the harp has been the recognized official symbol of Ireland – featured on the nation’s coat of arms and President’s seal. But why is the shamrock so often associated with Ireland and Saint Patrick’s Day? According to legend, it all started when Saint Patrick used the plant’s three leaves to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish people.

With its bright green color and abundance in the Irish countryside, it was no wonder that this humble plant became a national emblem—one that stands for Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and long-standing faith.

3. Saint Patrick’s Day Was Once a Dry Holiday

While it’s now celebrated with parades, green clothing, and beer, Saint Patrick’s Day was once a dry holiday.

In the early days of Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations, alcohol was not allowed to be served or consumed during festivities. This was because many people associated Saint Patrick’s Day with religious observances and believed drinking would be disrespectful to the saint’s memory. In addition, some cities had laws prohibiting alcohol sales on Sundays and other religious holidays, which included Saint Patrick’s Day in some cases.

The tradition of abstaining from alcohol on Saint Patrick’s Day began to change in the mid-19th century when Irish immigrants brought their own traditions to America and began celebrating with parades and parties featuring food and drink. By the late 19th century, pubs were open for business on Saint Patrick’s Day in most cities across America, and drinking had become an integral part of the holiday celebration for many people.

Today, while some people still choose to abstain from drinking on this special day, it has become a popular tradition to raise a glass (or two) in honor of Saint Patrick and all things Irish! Whether you celebrate with a pint or two or enjoy a plate full of traditional Irish dishes such as corned beef and cabbage or shepherd’s pie, don your greenest attire and join in on the fun!

4. Leprechauns Represent the Mischievous Nature of Saint Patrick’s Day

Leprechauns have been a part of Irish folklore and culture for centuries, representing the “luck of the Irish” and the mischievous nature of Saint Patrick’s Day. Research suggests that leprechauns are likely based on Celtic fairies, small creatures with magical powers known to play mischievous pranks.

The most popular legend associated with leprechauns is that they guard hidden treasures, such as pots of gold at the end of rainbows, and will only reveal their location if someone catches them. This has led many people to search for leprechauns in hopes of finding their fortune.

Today, leprechauns remain an important part of Irish culture and are celebrated during Saint Patrick’s Day festivities each year. There’s no shortage of ways to celebrate this iconic figure from Irish folklore, from parades to parties!

5. The First Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration Was Not in Ireland

The first Saint Patrick’s Day celebration was not held in Ireland but rather in the United States. Records show that the first parade occurred on March 17, 1601, in a Spanish colony today known as Saint Augustine, Florida. This was a gathering of people to celebrate the feast of Saint Patrick, and it marked the beginning of an annual tradition that is still celebrated today.

Since that day centuries ago, Saint Patrick’s Day has become an important part of Irish culture and identity worldwide. It continues to be celebrated with great enthusiasm each year by millions of people from all backgrounds and nationalities. Saint Patrick’s Day has come to represent more than just Irish heritage; it is now seen as a day to celebrate friendship, family, and community spirit no matter where you are or who you are!

Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day at Eddie’s on Lake Norman: Your Mooresville Restaurant in North Carolina

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a delicious Irish meal or gather with friends for a pint of green beer, Eddie’s is the perfect place to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. We offer a wide range of menu options, from traditional Irish dishes to classic American fare. And, of course, there will be plenty of green beer and other festive drinks to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a great place to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Mooresville, North Carolina, with gorgeous lakeside views, be sure to stop by Eddie’s on Lake Norman! We’d love to have you! Call (704) 799-2090 to learn more about our specials. Keep in mind that we do not take reservations.

About Eddie’s on Lake Norman

Ann-Margaret Wagner brings her hospitality and restaurant expertise from New York to the shores of Lake Norman with Eddie’s on Lake Norman. Ann-Margaret is the former owner of a successful restaurant in Westchester County, New York, called The Muscoot Tavern, an iconic “Cheers-like” bar and grille. After visiting Lake Norman, she fell in love with the area, saw potential in the restaurant, and decided to make North Carolina her new home with her daughter Lacy.

After purchasing the business previously Vinnie’s Sardine Grille and Raw Bar, she completely renovated the entire space, sold the other restaurant, and moved south. The kitchen is filled with all new appliances, while the bar, dining room, and back patio were all touched up to create a clean, comfortable, and relaxed atmosphere. Whether in North Carolina, New York, or anywhere else, Ann-Margaret’s mission is always to provide every meal with the freshest seafood, prime meats, produce, pasta, and bread.

“I hope you enjoy eating our delicious cooking as much as we love making it for you!”

– Ann-Margaret

If you would like to book an event at Eddie’s on Lake Norman, we require a $250 refundable deposit that can be applied to your bill and or credit card used for a deposit. We charge a $50 Event Fee and 25% gratuity, plus tax. For more information, call us at (704) 799-2090.

Copyright© 2023. Eddie’s on Lake Norman. All rights reserved.

Eddie’s on Lake Norman
643 Williamson Rd
Mooresville, NC 28117
704-799-2090
https://eddieslkn.com/

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