When people think of St. Patrick’s Day, they likely imagine parades, green beer, shamrocks, and, of course, leprechauns. But in certain parts of the United States, specifically in Kansas City, a quirky celebration called Snake Saturday has become an integral part of the lead-up to St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Though its name might sound a bit odd, this prelude to the big holiday has deep roots in Irish culture, local traditions, and a bit of mythological flair. Let’s dive into the fascinating connection between Snake Saturday and St. Patrick’s Day.
What is Snake Saturday?
Snake Saturday, celebrated the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day, is a local event primarily known in Kansas City, Missouri. The day is a prelude to the official St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, and while it shares many similarities with the larger holiday — including parades, wearing green, and festive revelry — it has its own distinct history and meaning.
The celebration’s name, “Snake Saturday,” can be traced back to St. Patrick’s legendary role in driving the snakes out of Ireland. According to myth, St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is credited with banishing all the snakes from the country, a symbolic act representing the triumph of Christianity over paganism. Though the scientific community believes that there were never actually any snakes in Ireland due to the island’s icy waters, the myth persists and plays a significant part in Irish folklore.
The Myth of St. Patrick and the Snakes
The most well-known version of the “snake-banishing” story is that St. Patrick, while fasting on a mountain, was hounded by snakes. In some versions, he is said to have driven them into the sea, and in others, it’s a symbolic act where the snakes represent the old, pre-Christian beliefs in Ireland. The myth is important because it illustrates St. Patrick’s role in converting the Irish people to Christianity, ridding the country of its pagan past.
Because of this myth, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations often focus on green — symbolizing both Ireland’s lush landscape and the idea of renewal — and themes of transformation, faith, and the triumph of good over evil.
The Birth of Snake Saturday
The origins of Snake Saturday in Kansas City are somewhat cloudy, but the most common explanation is tied to local Irish-American communities looking for a way to get a head start on the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. In the 1980s, a group of Kansas City residents decided to create a Saturday parade as a fun way to celebrate the upcoming holiday. They chose the name “Snake Saturday” as a playful nod to the Irish legend of St. Patrick’s victory over the snakes.
Though the event initially started as a small, informal gathering, it has grown into one of the largest Irish-themed celebrations in the Midwest. The Snake Saturday parade, which is held in North Kansas City, now features over 100 floats, marching bands, dancers, and, of course, plenty of green attire. The parade route is filled with families, locals, and visitors all enjoying the lively atmosphere and the chance to revel in Irish culture before the official St. Patrick’s Day arrives.
What Happens on Snake Saturday?
On Snake Saturday, the whole city (and especially the North Kansas City neighborhood) transforms into a sea of green, with people of all ages taking part in the festivities. The Snake Saturday Parade, the heart of the celebration, attracts thousands of spectators each year. The parade is led by grand marshals, often chosen from notable community figures or individuals with strong ties to Kansas City’s Irish heritage.
Aside from the parade, Snake Saturday also includes an Irish festival complete with live music, food vendors offering Irish delicacies (think corned beef, cabbage, and plenty of Irish stout), and cultural events like Irish dance performances. There’s also an emphasis on family-friendly activities, with carnival rides, face painting, and games for kids.
One of the best parts of Snake Saturday is the chance for locals to show off their Irish pride by dressing in green, decorating their homes, and sometimes even participating in “snake-themed” fun like wearing snake-related costumes or attending “snake” themed contests. It’s an event that encourages everyone, regardless of their heritage, to enjoy the spirit of Ireland and its unique customs.
How Snake Saturday Ties Into St. Patrick’s Day
The connection between Snake Saturday and St. Patrick’s Day is primarily symbolic, as both celebrations are linked to honoring Ireland’s patron saint. While St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th is recognized worldwide as the day to celebrate Irish heritage, Snake Saturday serves as a pre-St. Patrick’s Day celebration — a warm-up, if you will. It allows Kansas City’s Irish-American community (and anyone who loves a good time) to come together and celebrate their shared culture before the actual holiday.
Moreover, Snake Saturday underscores the importance of the myth of St. Patrick and his connection to driving out snakes. The event’s name pays homage to this central legend, giving people a way to playfully engage with the story while honoring Irish traditions. In many ways, the holiday acts as a continuation of the St. Patrick’s Day spirit but with a more localized and festive twist.
Snake Saturday’s Growth and Influence
In recent years, Snake Saturday has grown in popularity, and its influence has spread to other parts of the country. What began as a small parade in Kansas City has now become a large-scale celebration attracting tens of thousands of visitors. The event helps to foster a sense of community and pride in Kansas City’s Irish-American population, while also encouraging broader participation from people of all backgrounds.
Many attendees look forward to the day as a time to embrace Irish culture and learn more about Ireland’s history, customs, and traditions. For Kansas City’s residents, Snake Saturday is a cherished event that kicks off a season of Irish celebration, leading into St. Patrick’s Day and beyond.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Snake Saturday is much more than a fun prelude to St. Patrick’s Day. It is a unique and vibrant celebration of Irish culture, folklore, and community spirit. Whether you’re participating in a parade, enjoying Irish food and music, or just reveling in the fun of the day, Snake Saturday serves as a reminder of the rich history and traditions tied to St. Patrick’s legendary story.
If you ever find yourself in Kansas City in the weeks before St. Patrick’s Day, be sure to check out the festivities of Snake Saturday. It’s a celebration that captures the spirit of Ireland, the legacy of St. Patrick, and the joy of coming together to celebrate one of the world’s most beloved holidays.