St. Patrick’s Day— not what it seems

Brace yourself. I’m about to shatter your St. Patrick’s Day illusions. First, St. Patrick never drove snakes out of Ireland. The reptiles of popular myth are a metaphor for the pagans he converted to Christianity. Second, corned beef is not an Irish dish. Traditionally, Irish bacon was served with cabbage, but this was hard for Irish immigrants to procure in America. Their Jewish neighbors introduced them to corned beef as a substitute. Third, leprechauns have nothing to do with St. Patrick. Leprechauns are grumpy sprites who fixed fairies’ shoes in Celtic lore. Our derby wearing, pot o’ gold hiding, “They’re after me Lucky Charms!” icon is a Disney invention, from 1959’s Darby O’Gill and the Little People. Fourth (if your heart can stand any more), the tradition of St. Patty’s parades is also American—beginning in New York City in 1762. Except for green-dyed Budweiser, which I’m pretty sure was first synthesized by St. Patrick himself, our entire American concept of St. Patrick’s Day is just that—American. Honor the U.S.’s ability to have more fun on other country’s holidays than they do with a St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Old Sacramento this Sunday. The parade begins at 2 p.m. Catch live Irish music and dancing at the Judge’s stand on Front and K streets The parade is alcohol-free, but neighboring bars will serve the green and frothy all night long. Call 206-0948 for more information.