In all the boozy fervor over St. Patrick’s day, most people forget that Italians also have a holiday at this time of the year. Wednesday is St. Joseph’s Day, the celebration of the father of Jesus, patron saint of fathers and workers. Celebrated since 1621, St. Joseph’s Day is marked by feasts and public altars full of food and drink. In America, cities with large Italian communities have parades, build public altars and distribute food to the poor. This year, thanks to Holy Week, the official celebration of St. Joseph’s day was moved away from the standard March 19th date, but some places are sticking to tradition! Below are some St. Joseph’s tidbits, and some places in Chicago to join in the fun. more ›