It may about a month away, but cities around the world are already gearing up for St Patrick’s Day.
Falling on March 17, there’s no other saint’s day that has quite the popularity and global reach that St Patrick’s does.
From London to Australia, the United States to Ireland itself, St Patrick’s Day has been embraced wholeheartedly across the world.
And why not? It’s a great excuse to eat, drink, and be merry in a friendly, fun-loving atmosphere that only an Irish Saint’s Day could create.
Even some of the world’s most iconic landmarks are getting involved, as Tourism Ireland has announced the “greening” of some instantly recognisable sites.
Landmarks going green has become as much of a St Paddy’s Day tradition as green Guinness, and this year will see even more famous places getting involved.
“Tourism Ireland’s ‘global greening’ initiative is stepping up a pace this year,” said Niall Gibbons, chief executive of Tourism Ireland.
The latest landmarks to sign up to the global greening include Rio’s Christ the Redeemer statue, the iconic Las Vegas sign and Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid.
Even the Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza will get the green treatment on the big day. But that’s just the tip of the green iceberg.
“There are a few others that we’ll be keeping up our sleeves until closer to the day,” added Mr Gibbons.
Tourism Ireland hasn’t forgotten the UK; the HMS Belfast in London will get the green treatment, as will Manchester Town Hall and the Clyde Auditorium in Glasgow.
“We are absolutely delighted that so many well-known sites and attractions are eager to come on board with us and join in our celebrations,” said Mr Gibbons.
“Over 70 million people around the world claim links with the island of Ireland and St Patrick’s Day is a truly unique opportunity to reconnect them with their heritage.”
(Images courtesy of Tourism Ireland)
