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The United States can often be characterized by its celebration of holidays of all origins–and the adaptations of those holidays themselves. In many cases, holidays that held little importance in their source nation find a much more accentuated place in American society. One prime example of America’s (and, possibly even more notably, New York City’s) ability to amplify the power of an adopted holiday’s spirit is St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day traditionally commemorates the popular patron saint of Ireland, and also the introduction of (Catholic) Christianity to the nation. However, in New York City and many other places in America, this holiday has evolved into a raucous celebration of the homeland–with far fewer reverent, religious connotations.
Where does this desire to mold the intentions of an international holiday to showcase individual characteristics and pride come from? This question raises thoughts of religion, age, culture, and other differences that could have possibly wedged themselves into the gap that seems so distinct today. Through extensive research and interviews of family members who really have experienced both ends of the spectrum of St. Patrick’s Day, from the quiet observances of Ireland to the vibrant festivals of New York City, I intend to find out the answers to this question–and, hopefully, find examples of why so many holidays in New York City can be deeply rooted in the culture they’ve been introduced to, as well as holding on to their origins.
