Another great party will break out at Montage Cafe in Greenville on Friday, March 14 when Darke County Center for the Arts once again celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with traditional Irish food, drink, and music at its “Irish Wave” fundraiser. Learning about the source of those traditions as well as determining the true story of the man for whom the holiday is named is problematic, as legend has become intertwined with history and determining what is fact and what is fiction seems impossible.
We all know that St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, and that he converted the people of that nation to Christianity sometime during the fifth century. And that is just about the only undisputed claim regarding the person whose holiday has been celebrated around the world since 1631, when a Feast Day honoring him was established on the traditional date given for his death, March 17.
Some interesting probable facts include Patrick’s birth name—Maewyn Succat–and his birthplace—not Ireland, but Britain. When he was 16 years old, the future saint’s family estate was attacked by Irish raiders, who took him prisoner and transported him to Ireland where he was held captive for six years before escaping and returning to his home. During his captivity, Patrick is said to have dreams and visions telling him to convert the Irish people to Christianity, which he is credited with undertaking and accomplishing. Additionally, he is said to have miraculously driven all of Ireland’s snakes into the sea and originating the concept of using the three leaves of the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity.
Although the saint himself is said to have worn blue robes, the “wearing of the green” is traditional to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, as are parades. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade took place, not in Ireland, but in New York City on March 17, 1762, when Irish soldiers serving in the English military proudly marched. That event has led to over 100 such celebrations occurring today in the United States, where almost 35 million citizens (more than 7 times the population of Ireland itself) claim Irish ancestry.
The “traditional” food drink, and music that will enhance “Irish Wave” may or may not be traditional for those who live in Ireland, but will reflect timeworn practices and traditions that have endured over time in our country. The music for the event will once again be provided by Sons O’Blarney, a trio that specializes in good old Irish fun, and is led by singer/guitarist/songwriter Danny Schneible. The food, prepared by Aaron and Michele Cox, will include Irish specialties, and the drink will include beers and ales with Irish influences, although wine and non-alcoholic choices will also be available.
And–perhaps the most exciting component—you or someone you know can experience the thrill of traveling to the Emerald Isle; you will discover the winner to DCCA’s “Off to the Isle” Raffle—and it could be you!. Only 75 tickets will be sold for a chance to win this trip to Ireland (or elsewhere, if the winner so chooses), so your chances of experiencing the luck of the Irish are pretty high. Raffle tickets cost $100. Get your raffle tickets now at DCCA’s office, located on the third floor of Greenville Public Library; you do not need to be present to win the trip, so you can participate in the excitement even if you can’t make the party.
Tickets for “Irish Wave” are $60, and can be purchased at Montage, or by contacting DCCA at 937-547-0908 or online at www.darkecountyarts.org. Actually, you will experience the luck of the Irish simply by participating in this fun-filled event observing an Irish tradition that is joyously celebrated around the world.