Irish-American Heritage Month (March) and St. Patrick's Day (March 17): 2012
Originally a religious holiday to honor St. Patrick , who introduced Christianity to Ireland in the fifth century, St. Patrick's Day has evolved into a celebration for all things Irish. The world's first St. Patrick's Day parade occurred on March 17, 1762 , in New York City , featuring Irish soldiers serving in the English military. This parade became an annual event, with President Truman attending in 1948.Congress proclaimed March as Irish-American Heritage Month in 1995, and the President issues a proclamation commemorating the occasion each year. To read more about Irish Heritage Month and St. Patrick's Day each March, click here .