What is the date of St. Patrick's Day?

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The date of St. Patrick’s Day is March 17.

The holiday is observed as the feast day of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s foremost patron saint. March 17 is traditionally regarded as the date of Patrick’s death, although the exact details of his life and death are uncertain. The day commemorates Patrick and, more broadly, Irish heritage and the spread of Christianity in Ireland.

Saint Patrick’s Day became an official Christian feast day in the early 17th century. It is now marked by religious services, parades, festivals, Irish music, and the wearing of green or shamrocks. The celebration has spread far beyond Ireland through Irish communities around the world.

A common mix-up is confusing the date with April 1 or with nearby Irish cultural events. March 17 remains the fixed calendar date, though public celebrations may take place on a nearby weekend. In Ireland, the day can also be a public holiday, depending on the calendar and local arrangements.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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