Sockprints Spotlight: St. Patrick's Day Socks

St. Patrick’s Day has a special way of bringing out the green in everyone. Green clothing, green face paint, green beer (we promise, it’s really a thing). Although our spirits can soar high on this notoriously fun day, we’re also occasionally guilty of forgetting what’s the real deal behind this historical holiday.

Alongside this month’s sockprints Spotlight of St. Patrick’s Day socks, we’ve created a little quiz based on three shams or shamrocks about this vibrant, green holiday. Not to mention, from March 6 to March 9, take advantage of 15% off all St. Patrick’s Day custom printed socks on all sites. Good luck!

Quiz: Sham or Shamrock?

1. Shamrocks are four-leaf clovers.

Sham!

By definition, shamrocks are a young sprig of clover with three leaves. It is derived from the Irish word seamrog, which means “young clover,” and has stood as a symbol of Ireland for centuries. In addition, it is said in Irish legend that the missionary, Saint Patrick used the three leaves of the shamrock to illustrate the religious Holy Trinity - the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

On the other hand, four-leaf clovers do not have a direct connection to Irish culture. The “lucky” connotation associated with this unique varietal sprouted with references in Western European stories, and has grown bigger over time. Nowadays, the four-leaf clover is a popular symbol of “good luck” and is widely used in all kinds of work. Find this green figure on our If You Can Read This, You Are My Lucky Charm custom socks.

2. St. Patrick’s Day is an observance of the death of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.

Shamrock!

As the legend dictates, Saint Patrick was once an enslaved pig and sheep herder, who later escaped and became the “Voice of Ireland” after a divine vision from God. Post-vision, it is said that he evangelised thousands of pagans to Christianity and established churches across Ireland. Traditionally, he is thought to have passed on March 17 in 461 A.D.  

According to HISTORY, what once began as a religious feast day in the 17th century, eventually evolved into a culturally assimilated holiday celebrated around the globe that showcases Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing, and a whole lot of green. For an extra flamboyant outfit, wear these festive I’m A Lucky Guy custom printed crew socks around town.

3. Green was the original color associated with St. Patrick’s Day.

Sham!

Interestingly enough, blue was the original color. Timothy McMahon, vice president of the American Conference for Irish Studies, told TIME that, at least in the United States, for Irish people, wearing green became a symbol of pride for their home country during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the 19th century. It was a color associated both with Irish nationalism, as well as a color associated with Catholicism. Pinching came about as a way to reprimand those not showing Irish pride. Avoid getting pinched by adding a little green to your wardrobe with these Can’t Pinch This no-show custom socks.

Whether you guessed right or wrong, find your pot of gold at the end of the (sock) rainbow with our assortment of St. Patrick’s day custom printed socks. Pick up a humorous pair to avoid getting pinched and to add a little luck to your day!

Shop St. Patrick's Day Socks. Shop Sockprints. Shop Etsy.

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