St. Patrick's Day or the Feast of St. Patrick is observed on March 17 as a religious and cultural celebration. It honors Ireland's patron St. Patrick. The date marks the traditional death of the saint. In the early 17th century, it was made an official Christian feast day observed by the Church of Ireland, the Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and Lutheran Church...
Green is popping up everywhere today in honor of Saint Patrick's Day. From the Chicago River in the US to the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt—even the Sydney Opera House in Australia is dressed in this dashing shade. Today in Ireland, the home of this holiday, there will be singing, dancing, parades, and potentially pinches for those of us who forget to wear our green!
Today's Doodle is by guest artist and animator Chris O'Hara, an Irish animator currently working in Los Angeles. In the spirit of the day, O'Hara chose to paint the logo green with a little assistance from a friendly shamrock. We hope it reflects the boundless energy and welcoming spirit of Ireland, as Google sports green for the great Éire.
History
Saint Patrick was believed to be born in the fourth century in Roman Britain to a wealthy family. At age 16, he was kidnapped and taken as a slave to Gaelic Ireland. There, working as a shepherd, he "found God." Patrick found his way home and eventually became a Christian missionary and bishop. He returned to Ireland to convert the people to Christianity. He died March 17. He became Ireland's prominent saint.