What is the “luck of the Irish”?
The phrase the “luck of the Irish” is one of those expressions that appears to express a positive sentiment, but is actually a back-handed compliment or maybe even a mild insult. It emerged in mid-19th century America during the Gold Rush, when a surprising number of successful prospectors were of Irish descent. Rather than attributing their success to hard work, skill or perseverance, it was dismissed as the result of “dumb luck”
Over time, the phrase evolved, shedding much of its original condescension. Today, the idea that the Irish are inherently “lucky” has become an enduring stereotype—one embraced in folklore, pop culture, and, of course, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
What about Leprechauns? Aren’t they lucky?
The Mysterious and Mischievous Leprechaun
The leprechaun is one of the most iconic figures of Irish folklore—a diminutive creature, equal parts trickster and guardian, feared and revered in equal measure. These elusive beings are said to be master cobblers, repairing shoes with supernatural skill, yet their true passion lies in playing pranks on unsuspecting humans. Quick-witted and impossibly cunning, a leprechaun never falls for the same trick twice—but he will gladly lead the unwise astray.
Standing no more than two to three feet tall, the leprechaun is traditionally dressed in the green clothing of the Emerald Isle. He sports a top hat or derby, and though modern depictions give him a beard, early folklore describes him as clean-shaven. His eyes, sharp and knowing, suggest that he is always one step ahead.
Though legends insist that leprechauns are always male, the National Leprechaun Museum of Ireland in Dublin claims that female leprechauns do exist—though they are exceedingly rare, as if nature itself determined that the world could not handle such a formidable duo.
Beyond the leprechaun, another lesser-known but equally mischievous cousin lurks in the shadows: the Clurichaun. Similar in appearance and temperament, the Clurichaun shares the leprechaun’s love of trickery but has an even greater passion for drink. He can be found in abandoned wine cellars, guarding the barrels and bottles with greedy delight. Woe to the vintner who neglects his stock, for a Clurichaun will claim it as his own and refuse to be evicted.
A woman opening the door of her cottage to a leprechaun who doffs his hat; after Eltze, illustration from 'Stories told to Child'. 1865, Wood-engraving. © The Trustees of the British Museum
Maniacal leprechaun in advertisement for Good Luck Margarine; House of Good Fortune Collection
The Pot of Gold and the Price of Greed
The most enduring tale of the leprechaun is, of course, his hidden pot of gold. Said to be buried at the end of the rainbow, it is the ultimate prize for those bold enough to seek it. But be warned: no mortal has ever claimed a leprechaun’s treasure without consequence.
According to legend, if you manage to capture a leprechaun, he must grant you three wishes. But there’s a catch—leprechauns are master tricksters, and they delight in twisting wishes into curses. Wish for endless wealth, and you may find yourself with gold that turns to dust. Wish for love, and you may be adored by all but trusted by none. The lesson? Be careful what you wish for, and never assume you can outwit the leprechaun.
Leprechaun playing a fiddle; House of Good Fortune Collection
Brass leprechaun figurine; House of Good Fortune Collection
Leprechauns as Mascots
Despite (or maybe because of?) his surly attitude and nasty demeanor, the Leprechaun serves as the mascot of several sports teams, including the Boston Celtics and the University of Notre Dame’s “Fighting Irish.” When the latter came under fire for promoting ethnic stereotypes based on anti-Catholic and anti-immigrant bias, Notre Dame offered a full-throated defense of its use of the Leprechaun as a symbol of Irish Catholic pride.
For whatever reason, people tend not be too creative when naming Leprechauns. While Notre Dame’s mascot is nameless, the Celtics’ mascot is called “Lucky,” which also happens to be the name of the Leprechaun pitch man for Lucky Charms Cereal.
Notre Dame’s “Fighting Irish” Leprechaun Mascot
“Lucky the Leprechaun,” mascot of the Boston Celtics
A Famous Leprechaun Sighting in America
If you think Leprechauns live only in Ireland, you are wrong. In 2006, there was a famous Leprechaun sighting in Mobile, Alabama that was the subject of a news report that went viral. Click on the image of the Crichton leprechaun below to watch the classic clip, which could be the greatest news segment of all time.
The Crichton Leprechaun of Mobile, Alabama
Like all figures of folklore, the leprechaun is more than just a tale; he is a symbol—of luck, of trickery, of the fine line between fortune and folly. Whether he is guarding his gold, mending a shoe, or leading a greedy soul astray, the leprechaun reminds us that luck is never truly free. It is earned, stolen, or lost—but never simply given.
And so, if ever you find yourself wandering the Irish countryside, catching a glimpse of something small and swift out of the corner of your eye, think twice before you give chase. You may just find yourself bargaining with a being who has outwitted kings and fools alike.
Leprechaun seated on top of a mushroom cap while cobbling; House of Good Fortune Collection
Wade Whimsies Leprechaun Cobbler; House of Good Fortune Collection
Leprechaun seated in a horseshoe while fixing a shoe; House of Good Fortune Collection