Why Beer on Saint Patrick’s Day?
You may be asking why so many people celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day by drinking beer.
We honestly didn’t know the reason either until writing this article. What we found actually makes a lot of sense.
Giving Up Drinking Alcohol During Lent…
Traditionally, many people of Irish descent practice Catholicism or some form of Protestantism. While these two religious sects have their differences, they both honor the Christian practice of Lent, where participants challenge themselves to give up one of their vices for 40 days, from Ash Wednesday until Easter.
For many, honoring Lent means giving up drinking alcohol for 40 days, similar to Dry January or Sober October.
…Except on Saint Patrick’s Day
However, many Christians use Saint Patrick’s Day as a “cheat day” during Lent and use the day as an excuse to drink alcohol, often in excess.
Over the years, regardless of whether or not you celebrate Lent, Saint Patrick’s Day has become synonymous with drinking beer.
On Saint Patrick’s Day, people around the world join in this tradition, celebrating Irish culture and often, the communal joy of sharing a pint.
