Around the ninth century A.D., people in Ireland began observing the Roman Catholic feast day of Saint Patrick on March 17. It was said that Saint Patrick used a shamrock, a three-leafed clover, to explain to the people of Ireland the concept of the holy trinity. Since then, the shamrock has become a symbol for both Ireland and St. Patrick’s day. 

Creighton’s campus saw many students wearing green to show the St. Patrick’s Day spirit. 

“I like wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day,” Lizzie Calderon, a sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences, said. “I like the whole pinch somebody if they’re not wearing green thing, it’s a fun tradition.” 

Brandeis Dining Hall also showed their holiday spirit by decorating and featuring Irish and green themed food. During lunch, they served Irish cream cheesecake, shepherd’s pie, Irish soda bread and other themed dishes. 

During dinner, they served a green smoothie and a green pizza. The Irish pizza had hash browns, bacon, green onion, mozzarella and a bechamel sauce. 

Annie’s Irish Pub was a popular meetup spot for Creighton students 21 and older and greater Omaha patrons alike. 

Another popular pub, The Dubliner, was filled with Saint Patrick’s Day, taking it upon themselves to celebrate with friends, family and drinks. 

Additionally, the local chapter of the Ancient Order of Hibernians held the city’s largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 12 on 15th and Harney streets downtown. It was a free, family-friendly event.