Tourism Ireland has created a St. Patrick’s Day tradition with the Global Greening Initiative where buildings, landmarks, and historical sites will be illuminated green to celebrate Ireland’s National Day. This year the tradition continues with more sites around the world being illuminated green than ever before and we cannot wait to see them all.

Tourism Ireland is excited to get the Irish diaspora involved by introducing the Green Candle Initiative. There is a tradition in Ireland of lighting a candle in a window, as a way of guiding strangers in the night. At a time when Irish people overseas cannot travel home, this year let’s shine a light on St. Patrick’s Day, by placing a candle in a window as a beacon of solidarity and hope. The intention is to give our Diaspora a sense of connection with home and remind them that we cannot wait to welcome them back, as soon as it is possible to do so.

Let’s start a new tradition this year as we celebrate at home and add to the 670 sites in 66 countries being illuminated in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. Please take part and share a photo or video on social media platforms using the hashtag #GlobalGreening.

If St. Patrick’s Day has you thinking about your next trip to Ireland visit Ireland.com to get inspired for travel when the time is right.