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What to Read for St. Patrick’s Day

Exploring the history, myths, and traditions of the holiday celebrating Ireland’s patron saint.

Pocket Collections

Read when you’ve got time to spare.

Image by Yannick Tylle/Staff/Getty Images

Why Doesn’t Ireland Have Snakes?

Sarah Fecht
Popular Science

Legend has it that, back in the fifth century A.D., St. Patrick exterminated Ireland’s snakes by driving them into the sea. He would appear to have done a thorough job, because Ireland is free of native snakes to this day. Except, Ireland never actually had snakes.

19 Irish Recipes for St. Patrick's Day

The Serious Eats Team
Serious Eats

No matter the nature of your St. Patrick’s Day traditions, great food is an absolute must. From classic (and not-so-classic) soda breads to stout-battered onion rings and corned beef galore, these 19 Irish-inflected dishes and cocktails will keep you well-fed all day long.