Lucky Memories: The Nostalgia of St. Patrick's Day Traditions

The green, the gold, and the gatherings— St. Patrick's Day brings a wave of familiar traditions and cherished memories. For many, the holiday isn't just finding the perfect green attire; it's a way of rekindling childhood memories.
by Rylee Watson

​The green, the gold, and the gatherings—St. Patrick's Day brings a wave of familiar traditions and cherished memories. For many, the holiday isn't just about finding the perfect green attire; it's a way of rekindling childhood memories.

St. Patrick's Day carries a kind of excitement that is hard to miss. Wearing green is not just encouraged; it feels required. The possibility of getting pinched holds a playful sense of thrill for the day. Looking back, classrooms would be filled with shamrocks, themed treats, and small traditions that left an impression on students. Students describe St. Patty’s as “Fun” and “Festive.”

As a kid, moments like these seemed almost exaggerated in the best way. Gracie Starrett remembers “making green eggs and ham” to celebrate in elementary school; though she doesn’t recall the taste, the memory has stuck with her over all these years. Experiencing holidays, big and small, allowed students throughout a variety of years to hold onto these lasting memories. Thinking back, Brooke Mathews reminisces on the day: “...[Brooke] and [her] class went to recess and we came back and there were green footprints everywhere and chocolate coins all over our desk. As a kid I enjoyed it just because it made the classroom more exciting, plus it's a fun memory to look back on.”

As time passes and students transition into high school, the way the day is observed begins to change. Wearing green becomes more of an option rather than an exciting choice. The same traditions remain, but they no longer carry the heightened sense of importance as they once did. These details shrink and are overlooked amid busy schedules and heavier responsibilities. Moments that once seemed small, such as laughing with friends over mismatched green outfits or checking for any sign of green, take on greater meaning over time.

Ultimately, the significance of St. Patrick's Day extends beyond its public customs. It becomes a reflection of growth, seeing how perspectives change while memories remain. The excitement may no longer be as bold as it once was, but it has not disappeared; it has only evolved.


St. Patrick's Day is not only a celebration of tradition, but also a small reminder of how these traditions continue to shape individuals long after childhood has passed. Walnut Grove showcases how simple decor can enhance the simple tradition of St. Patty’s Day.