Dictionary of Sydney

The Dictionary of Sydney was archived in 2021.

St Patrick's Day

Cultural and religious festival commemorating the date of death of the patron saint of Ireland which is celebrated worldwide on March 17th.

Type

Celebrating St Patrick's Day in nineteenth-century Sydney

,
2012

St Patrick's Day has been celebrated in Sydney since the early days of settlement, with observance ranging from horse races and sports, to banquets, boat races and church services. During the 19th century, different groups within Sydney's vibrant Irish community took charge of the day at different times, ensuring it remained part of Sydney's social calendar as the city changed and grew.