Date
Tuesday
May
13

May 13

National Leprechaun Day

Get ready to catch some luck of the Irish on National Leprechaun Day! Dress up in green and join the festivities with parades, parties, and plenty of shamrocks.

Yearly Date
May 13
Type
Day

Introduction

Get ready to don your green attire and search for pots of gold, because May 13 is National Leprechaun Day! This whimsical holiday celebrates the legendary Irish creature known for its mischievous ways and love for all things shiny. According to Irish folklore, leprechauns are small, solitary creatures who are often depicted as shoemakers or cobblers. They are also said to be guardians of hidden treasure, making them a symbol of good luck and prosperity. So put on your best Irish accent and join in the festivities on this fun-filled day!

National Leprechaun Day Timeline

1800s
Leprechaun Legends
During the 19th century, leprechaun legends grew popular in Irish folklore as mischievous fairies associated with luck and prosperity.
1903
Leprechauns in Literature
James Stephens features leprechauns prominently in his novel "The Crock of Gold", further cementing the leprechaun's place in popular culture.
1959
Disney's 'Darby O'Gill'
Disney's movie "Darby O'Gill and the Little People" helps popularize leprechauns on a global scale, amplifying their association with luck and whimsy.
1987
Leprechauns Enter Horror Genre
With the release of the horror franchise "Leprechaun", the mythical Irish creature gains a darker, albeit still fantastic, portrayal in pop culture.
2010
National Leprechaun Day Establishment
National Leprechaun Day is established, celebrated annually on May 13 to appreciate and promote leprechaun folklore, traditions, and cultural impact.

How to Celebrate National Leprechaun Day

1

Dress up like a leprechaun

Get into the festive spirit by dressing up in green and accessorizing with a leprechaun hat, beard, or pot of gold. Snap some pictures and have fun with it!

2

Make shamrock-shaped treats

Get creative in the kitchen and make some delicious treats shaped like shamrocks. You can use cookie cutters or mold them by hand. Don't forget to add some green food coloring for an extra festive touch.

3

Go on a Leprechaun scavenger hunt

Hide small trinkets or chocolate coins around your house or backyard and create clues for a Leprechaun-themed scavenger hunt. The person who finds the most items wins a pot of gold at the end!

4

Learn about Irish culture

Take some time to learn about the history and traditions of Ireland. You can watch documentaries, read books, or even attend a cultural event or festival.

5

Host a St. Patrick's Day themed party

Gather your friends and family for a St. Patrick's Day themed party. Serve traditional Irish dishes, play Irish music, and have fun with green decorations and games. Don't forget to dress up in your best leprechaun attire!

Why We Love National Leprechaun Day

A

It's a day to celebrate Irish culture

National Leprechaun Day falls on May 13th, and is a great opportunity to embrace all things Irish! From dressing up in green, to trying traditional Irish dishes, this holiday is all about celebrating the unique and fun aspects of Irish culture.

B

Leprechauns are fascinating creatures

These mischievous beings have been a part of Irish folklore for centuries, and are a staple in many St. Patrick's Day celebrations. National Leprechaun Day gives us the chance to learn more about these elusive creatures and have some fun with their legends and stories!

C

There are so many ways to celebrate

From going on a leprechaun hunt, to making pots of gold crafts, there are endless ways to celebrate National Leprechaun Day. It's a great opportunity to get creative and have some good old fashioned fun with friends and family!

National Leprechaun Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 12
Friday
2024
May 12
Sunday
2025
May 12
Monday
2026
May 12
Tuesday
2027
May 12
Wednesday