Why is Saint Patrick's Day popular?

Because back in the day when Irish Catholics observed LENT in a more strict manor,...we abstained from a great many pleasures,...one of them being drinking not to mention gluttony, sex or gossip for that matter. However on Saint Patty's Day we were relieved of our obligation to abstain,...hence,...everyone overindulges resulting in drunkenness, fighting and eating huge meals like corned beef and cabbage.