Saint Patrick’s Day is a time for all things green, lucky, and magical! Whether you’re celebrating with a parade, a feast, or a cozy day at home, there are so many ways to make the day special. From fun coloring activities for kids and adults to must-read books with Irish charm, let’s dive into the spirit of the holiday!
Saint Patrick’s Day, celebrated every year on March 17, honors Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. He was a missionary credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century. Legend has it that he used the three-leaf clover (shamrock) to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity. Over time, the day became a celebration of Irish heritage, filled with parades, festivals, and all things green.
Of course, as a kid, my understanding of Saint Patrick’s Day was much simpler. I didn’t think about Ireland, shamrocks, or history—I just knew that if I didn’t wear something green, I was in trouble. Going to school on March 17 without even a hint of green meant you were fair game for pinching from classmates who took their “holiday duties” way too seriously. It was basically an unofficial rule of childhood!
Some kids came prepared with head-to-toe green outfits, while others barely remembered to grab a tiny green sticker at the last minute for self-defense. And then there were the rule enforcers—those kids who went around actively hunting for anyone who had forgotten. I still remember nervously checking my shirt in the morning, making sure I was safe from a day of surprise pinches.
Now, as an adult, I can appreciate the history and cultural significance of the holiday (while thankfully leaving the pinching tradition behind!). Whether it’s enjoying a festive meal, reading a book inspired by Irish folklore, or just wearing something green out of nostalgia, it’s always fun to celebrate in my own way.
A Fun Coloring Page for Everyone!
One of the best ways to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day is by getting creative! I’ve designed a free printable coloring page featuring:
- A pot of gold
- A rainbow
- Book elements
- Shamrocks and Celtic-inspired designs
Perfect for kids and adults alike, this coloring page is a great way to relax and add a splash of green to your day. Download and print it out for a fun activity!
Get the free JPG here or the PDF here.
Mandala Coloring Sheet!
A cute little three leaf clover with a mandala design.
Get the free JPG here or thte PDF here.
Books to Get You in the Saint Patrick’s Day Spirit
Looking for some great reads to embrace the Irish magic? Here are some fantastic book recommendations for different moods and genres:
For Lovers of Irish Myth & Folklore:
- Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier – A beautiful retelling of an Irish legend filled with magic and romance.
- The Call by Peadar Ó Guilín – A dark and thrilling take on Irish mythology with a dystopian twist.
For Cozy Irish Vibes:
- An Irish Country Doctor by Patrick Taylor – A heartwarming tale set in the Irish countryside, filled with humor and charm.
- P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern – A touching story of love, loss, and new beginnings.
For a Fantasy Adventure with Irish Flair:
- Hounded by Kevin Hearne – A fun urban fantasy featuring an ancient Druid living in modern-day Arizona, packed with Irish mythology.
- The Wren Hunt by Mary Watson – A lyrical fantasy novel inspired by ancient Celtic traditions.
Bonus Fun: A Saint Patrick’s Day Word Search!
Looking for an extra way to celebrate? I’ve created a Saint Patrick’s Day-themed word search filled with festive words like shamrock, leprechaun, rainbow, and luck! It’s a fun activity for both kids and adults—perfect for a little holiday brain-teasing.
Play below or download your free word search as a JPG here or PDF here.
