Leprechaun traps

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Leprechaun traps are crafts used, typically in elementary school or by families with small children, to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day. Leprechaun trapping can be compared to leaving cookies out for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. The traps are set up the night before St. Patrick's Day, and children awaken to discover signs that leprechauns (mythical creatures) have visited the trap.

According to the tradition, one must believe leprechauns are real to trap one.^[1] It is also believed that leprechauns love gold and trickery and may steal or hide items unless captured, pleased, or scared away.^[2] A trap is traditionally made by young children and set out the night before St. Patrick's Day.^[2] Once trapped, Leprechauns may grant three wishes, and in many of the folklore stories, Irish-folk have been tricked, and made foolish wishes. Since Leprechauns remain folklore, children will often return to the trap with signs of a leprechaun visiting rather than a leprechaun itself. There will be chocolate coins, and treasure left in their bottom drawers.^[3]

Leprechaun traps are typically made by families with children to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day. The traps are typically made out of common household items that can be easily found or purchased. The traps are typically green and gold and feature the stereotypical leprechaun items: gold coins, rainbows, top hat and four leaf clover.

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