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The Evolution of St. Patrick’s Day: From Feast to Festivities
Issue #464
In this Knoxville Insider Issue…
🌤️ Weather | Sunny with a High of 55
📰 Felicia and Frens: A Fancy Hat Tea Party for a Cause
📰 Rally for Rowan Fundraiser
🗓️ Upcoming Events
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The Evolution of St. Patrick’s Day: From Feast to Festivities
Modern St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the United States are often associated with green beer, lucky charms, and parades, but the holiday’s origins are far more historical than commercial.
The tradition began in 1631 when the Church established March 17 as a Feast Day in honor of St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland, who died in the fifth century. However, much of his life remains a mystery. Legend states that he was born Maewyn Succat but later changed his name to Patricius, meaning “father figure,” when he became a priest.
One of the most iconic aspects of St. Patrick’s Day—the color green—wasn’t always associated with the holiday. Initially, St. Patrick was linked to blue, as it appeared in Irish royal courts and ancient flags. However, in 1798, during the Irish Rebellion, green became the symbolic color of Irish pride. Since the British wore red, Irish revolutionaries wore green and sang The Wearing of the Green, solidifying the color’s importance in Irish history.
The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in New York City in 1762, long before it became a grand spectacle. Meanwhile, in Ireland, the holiday remained a solemn religious observance—with even pubs closed for the day—until the late 20th century. The shift toward beer-fueled celebrations can be credited to Budweiser’s marketing push in the 1980s, which helped popularize green beer as a staple of modern festivities.
Though St. Patrick’s Day is now a vibrant celebration of Irish culture, it originated as a humble religious feast dedicated to a little-known historical figure.
Felicia and Frens: A Fancy Hat Tea Party for a Cause
April 27, at The Kraken’s Cup
Join us for a one-of-a-kind event celebrating friendship, creativity, and compassion! Felicia and Frens is a special gathering inspired by Felicia, the beloved “fancy hat-wearing diva” of Magnolia Harbor Carefarm.
Support a Meaningful Cause
This event benefits Magnolia Harbor Carefarm, a therapeutic sanctuary that helps individuals navigate trauma, grief, and loss while also caring for over 50 rescued animals.
Create Your Own Fancy Hat
Unleash your creativity as you design a stylish hat to take home—just like Felicia would have loved!
Enjoy a Charming Afternoon Tea
Savor a delightful tea buffet and delicious treats while enjoying the warm company of friends.
Tickets Include:
Afternoon tea buffet
Raffle ticket (100% of proceeds go to MHC!)
All materials needed for your custom fancy hat
A heartwarming afternoon in support of a great cause
A portion of every ticket sale supports Magnolia Harbor Carefarm’s mission.
Learn more about Magnolia Harbor Carefarm at magnoliaharbor.org.
Don’t miss this unforgettable event—grab your tickets today! More Info

Discover all upcoming events on our Community Events page
Upcoming Events:
Looking for the perfect place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? Look no further than Pins & Pints Pinball Pub in Knoxville! Located at 1336 E Emory Road, this lively neighborhood pub is gearing up for a three-day celebration filled with festive fun, delicious food, and unbeatable drink specials. March 14 - March 17 More info
Join Mabry-Hazen House for its first Night at the Museum on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, from 6 PM – 9 PM. This after-hours event offers a unique way to experience history while enjoying locally crafted drinks and a relaxing evening on Mabry’s Hill. www.mabryhazen.com/natm.
Get your creative juices flowing with Babemade at our next Paint and Sip event! Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with painting, tea, and treats. Enjoy a cup of delicious tea and indulge in our famous butter cookies while you unleash your inner artist and create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece to take home. March 19 from 6 PM to 8 PM at The Kraken's Cup More Info
Step back in time and explore the rich history of the Bible with a full-scale replica of the Tabernacle of Moses at The Crown College in Powell, TN. This remarkable exhibition will be open to the public for three days, from March 20, to March 22, at no cost. Located at 2307 West Beaver Creek Drive, this unique experience offers a deep dive into the sacred elements of the Tabernacle More Info
Outrun the Popo - Police Benefit at Knoxville Dragway on March 22 - gates open at 8am knoxvilledragway.com
Celebrate National Quilting Month by joining us for a special hands-on workshop at Ramsey House! March 22, 10 AM – 2 PM at Ramsey House More Info
Networking:
Veterans:
Free Veteran’s Breakfast: The United Veterans Council of East Tennessee presents 14 free breakfasts for Veterans and guests on four Saturdays, monthly, Coffee line starts at 8am, Chow line starts at 8:30am. Locations and Dates



City of Knoxville Job Fair
The City of Knoxville invites residents of all ages to explore career opportunities at the Job Fair and Career Expo on March 26, from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at the Public Works Service Center (3131 Morris Avenue).
This open-house-style event provides an opportunity to apply on-site for current job openings and summer internships. Attendees can ask questions about the application process, job qualifications, salary, benefits, work schedules, and pension options.
In addition to meeting with city representatives, guests will have the chance to view vehicles and equipment used by various City departments, offering a closer look at the work environment.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about careers with the City of Knoxville!

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