<P> Tradition holds that he died on 17 March and was buried at Downpatrick . Over the following centuries, many legends grew up around Patrick and he became Ireland's foremost saint . </P> <P> Today's St Patrick's Day celebrations have been greatly influenced by those that developed among the Irish diaspora, especially in North America . Until the late 20th century, St Patrick's Day was often a bigger celebration among the diaspora than it was in Ireland . </P> <P> Celebrations generally involve public parades and festivals, Irish traditional music sessions (céilithe), and the wearing of green attire or shamrocks . There are also formal gatherings such as banquets and dances, although these were more common in the past . St Patrick's Day parades began in North America in the 18th century but did not spread to Ireland until the 20th century . The participants generally include marching bands, the military, fire brigades, cultural organisations, charitable organisations, voluntary associations, youth groups, fraternities, and so on . However, over time, many of the parades have become more akin to a carnival . More effort is made to use the Irish language, especially in Ireland, where the week of St Patrick's Day is "Irish language week". Recently, famous landmarks have been lit up in green on St Patrick's Day . </P> <P> Christians may also attend church services, and the Lenten restrictions on eating and drinking alcohol are lifted for the day . Perhaps because of this, drinking alcohol--particularly Irish whiskey, beer, or cider--has become an integral part of the celebrations . The St Patrick's Day custom of "drowning the shamrock" or "wetting the shamrock" was historically popular, especially in Ireland . At the end of the celebrations, a shamrock is put into the bottom of a cup, which is then filled with whiskey, beer, or cider . It is then drunk as a toast to St Patrick, Ireland, or those present . The shamrock would either be swallowed with the drink or taken out and tossed over the shoulder for good luck . </P>

Who is st patrick and why do we celebrate