As well as being a celebration of Irish culture and heritage, the day is traditionally a commemoration of Ireland’s patron saint St Patrick and the arrival of Christianity.

Nowadays, it is reportedly the most widely celebrated national holiday in the world, and has even been marked on the International Space Station.

Many take full advantage of the occasion to proudly proclaim their Irish roots, no matter how far back they lie.

Among the local pubs that will celebrate the occasion is the Brian Boru Hotel, named after the last High King of Ireland.

Green has been associated with the holiday since the 17^th century and it is said you’ll be pinched by a leprechaun if you are not wearing it.

It also ties in with the nickname of the Emerald Isle, a nod to Ireland’s verdant countryside.

Shamrocks are associated with the day because St Patrick is said to have used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagans.