•Saint Patrick’s color was “Saint Patrick’s blue,” a light shade. The color green only became associated with the big day after it was linked to the Irish independence movement in the late 18th century.

• Although he made his mark by introducing Christianity to Ireland in the year 432, Patrick was not Irish himself. He was born to Roman parents in Scotland or Wales.

• As you might expect, Saint Patrick’s Day is a huge deal in his old stomping grounds. It’s a national holiday in both Ireland and Northern Ireland.

• According to Irish legend, the saint used the three-leafed shamrock as a metaphor for the Holy Trinity when he was first introducing Christianity to Ireland.

• A 2012 estimate pegged the total amount spent on beer for Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations at $245 million. And that’s before tips to pubs’ bartenders.

• According to Irish legend, Saint Patrick was not originally called Patrick. His birth name was Maewyn Succat, but he changed his name to Patricius after becoming a priest.

• Another little-known fact from Irish lore: Leprechauns earned that gold they’re guarding. According to legend, leprechauns spend their days making and mending shoes. It’s hard work, so you can’t blame them for being territorial about their pots of gold.

• Don’t be fooled by any holiday decorations showing lady leprechauns. In traditional Irish folk tales, there are no female leprechauns, only nattily attired little guys.

• Your odds of finding a four-leaf clover are about 1 in 10,000.