Where did the food mix up occur? One theory, or idea, is that when the Irish came to America, and specifically New York, they were struggling to find work. Many Irish immigrants worked in the only butcher shops that would hire them at that time which were kosher butcher shops. When Saint Patrick's Day came, there was no bacon because it isn't found in a kosher butcher shop so instead they ate corned beef which is essentially a seasoned brisket. As the Irish moved and spread throughout America, they brought this new traditional food with them. In fact, it's something that I usually eat with my family every year.
Although both countries celebrate the same holiday, it's important that we understand the differences in culture and tradition. Two more fun facts about Saint Patrick's Day, when you shorten it to St. Paddy's Day you spell it with two d's instead of two t's because it is based on the Irish form of Patrick; Padraig. Also, the very first St. Paddy's Day parade took place in New York City, not even in Ireland! It was celebrated in 1762.
