St. Patrick’s Day is the celebration of Ireland’s patron saint on the anniversary of his death—March 17th. While this time of year might make you think of Irish beer and the color green, there’s actually a complicated history behind this holiday.

St. Patrick’s Day was introduced to America when Irish immigrants arrived in the 19th century. By the 1840’s, parades for the day were very popular. Corned beef and cabbage made up a holiday meal that immigrants could afford, so these quickly became the traditional food.

Since March 17th usually falls within the season of Lent, it became the single day when Lenten restrictions on eating and drinking alcohol were temporarily lifted. Due to this, consuming Irish beer, cider, and whiskey became an important part of the celebrations.

The holiday advanced many Irish traditions, including the use of the shamrock, which is Ireland’s national flower. According to legend, Saint Patrick used three-leaf clovers to explain the Holy Trinity. And the saying “The luck of the Irish” came about during the years of the gold rush, when many famous and successful miners were of Irish descent.

While you’re searching for your pot of gold this St. Patrick’s day, start the day off by brewing a pot of happiness with some decadent roasted coffee. The Gourmet Coffee Gift Box gives you four different options and is a wonderful way to sample our custom coffees. Each bag brews several servings of good fortune.