pattern

In Ireland, the traditional celebration of the feast-day of a saint who is a local ‘patron’. A pattern was usually held at a holy well dedicated to the saint, with devotees kneeling in veneration and ‘making rounds’ (walking sun-wise around the well while praying for the relief of ailments or other favours). The patterns developed from the 17th century into important social occasions, and were often accompanied by dancing and sports. Due to the prevalence of drinking and fighting, they earned the disapproval of the clergy in the later 19th century and were largely discontinued, although there has been some revival in recent years.