Ever wondered why St Patrick’s is such a big deal in Malta? With thousands expected to head to St Julian’s later today – some even starting this morning! – no one can deny that many in Malta take this feast seriously. Some might argue that locals would take any opportunity for revelry, but in the case of St Paddy’s there’s actually some history tied to it too!

The Facebook page of the Bormla Local Council has shared this nugget of wisdom as we mark this greenest of feasts. Read on and impress your friends with this knowledge over an Irish beer later today!

In the early 20th century, the Royal Dublin Fusiliers, an Irish regiment of the British Army, were stationed in Floriana. Every 17th March, they gathered in the Balzunetta area – an area now known for the ‘boċċi’ pitch and delicious pizza – to celebrate their patron saint, St Patrick.

These celebrations are considered to be the first St Patrick’s Day celebrations ever held in Malta.

There’s more too: after a friendly football match with the locals, the soldiers gave their green-and-white jerseys to Floriana F.C. – colours the club still proudly wears today! So when you don that green top today, remember you’re wearing some threads of local history, too.

Will you be going green today?