/>2. An unlucky symbol
3. A colourful present
4. A world famous journey
5. One and the same name
6. The national food
7. A talisman for luck
8. Old holiday traditions
A. When you think of the Irish, you often picture a red-haired person dressed all in green. However, its just a popular myth which has grown into a tradition, particularly in the United States. Its customary in Ireland to wear green clothes only on St. Patricks Day. Lots of people are tricked by this clich. However, originally, the colour associated with Saint Patrick was not green, but blue.
B. In Ireland, the colour green was long considered to bring bad fortune. The reason is that in Irish folklore green is the favourite color of the Good People (the proper name for fairies). Myths run that they are likely to steal people, especially children, who wear too much of the colour. In the past, a girl would never wear anything green on her wedding day.
C. Christmas is a very important celebration in Ireland. After dinner on Christmas Eve, it is common for families to leave milk and bread on the table as a sign of friendliness and kindness. Another custom is to leave the door unlocked. A lit candle is left in a window during the night. It represents help for any traveller who is passing by.
D. Potatoes form the basis for many traditional Irish dishes. They are eaten boiled, mashed, fried, baked, you name it. Potatoes are mixed with cabbage or green onions to make traditional Irish dishes. They are also made into potato cakes and used in soups or stews. Its common to find potatoes cooked in two different ways on the same dinner plate.
E. The shamrock is still a popular sign of good fortune in Ireland. It is believed that anyone who possess
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