A St Patrick's Day Story and Wish For Ye

St Patrick's Day has been celebrated in the US for over 420 years, with the first recorded celebration occurring in 1600 and the first parade in 1601, both in the Spanish colony of St Augustine, Florida. It was brought to the colonies by Irish immigrants and soldiers, with major parades in cities like New York dating back to 1762.

Key historical milestones for the holiday in the US include:

• 1600/1601: Earliest recorded celebration and parade (St Augustine, Florida)
• 1737: First recorded Boston celebration
• 1762: First New York City parade held by Irish soldiers

Public celebrations grew significantly in the 18th and 19th centuries as Irish immigrants used the holiday to express their cultural pride.

Now, at least for this day, all American citizens, regardless of heritage and ancestry, are Irish in order to celebrate the Patron Saint of Ireland and New York City.

As much as it is a day for parades, parties and frivolity, it should also be a day to be extra cautious, as we are living under an increased threat of terror, as witnessed by several recent events across the country.

So, enjoy the day, while keeping safe and aware of everything around you. And may the Luck O' the Irish be with you throughout the year