By Louise Boilevin, The Shift, Local Journalism Initiative
Why do we associate leprechauns with St. Patrick’s Day? Leprechauns have always been associated with this annual Irish celebration of culture on March 17, but especially since the release of the fantasy adventure film, Darby O’ Gill and The Little People, in 1959. This movie is set in a small, fictional Irish town called Rathcullen in County Kerry and tells the story of an Irishman and his battle of wits with leprechauns.
While the film is a fantasy adventure, leprechauns have a long history in Irish folklore. In indigenous Ireland they were known as tiny, mischievous male fairies who would reveal the hidden place of treasure if caught.
Did you know that the Irish term for leprechaun is “leipreachán?”
In Celtic mythology, leprechauns spent their time mending and making shoes. They would also hide their coins in pots of gold that could be found at the end of rainbows. Although many modern depictions of St. Patrick’s Day leprechauns describe them as witty characters known for telling practical jokes, they were also mischievous and known for being protective of their own money and possessions.
Legend says that leprechauns were small in size and that they were hard to catch. They’re described as being the same height as a child, or even smaller. But if you managed to catch one, the leprechaun would grant you three wishes if you set him free.
They are typically associated with the colour green, wearing a green or red coat and having a red or white beard.
It is believed that leprechauns first originated from the Tuatha Dé Danann (Tribe of the Gods). In mythology, the Tuatha Dé Danann were one of the first tribes to arrive in pre-Christian Ireland.
Leprechauns have remained a major symbol of Ireland for centuries, and are one of the main characters associated with St. Patrick’s Day both in Ireland and in different counties around the world. Lots of people dress up as leprechauns for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and parades every year.
