St. Patrick’s Day: A Look Into the Culture of Luck

Luck is a widely discussed topic globally, touching the lives of countless individuals. Whether it’s through traditional tales or well-worn sayings, people everywhere hope for a dose of good fortune. Be it grabbing a lucky charm or uttering phrases of luck, or even engaging with time-honored superstitions, the allure of luck is hard to resist.

Lucky superstitions have a long-standing presence in the Canadian and American landscape. Who hasn’t crossed their fingers in anticipation or wished upon a shooting star when it streaks across the sky? Knocking on wood—it's a go-to move to keep misfortune at bay. At times, stakes are high enough to make us turn to these rituals, just in case there's any truth in them.

As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, a day closely tied to luck, 2,000 Canadians and 2,000 Americans gave us insights into whether they see themselves as lucky and which superstitions they hold dear.

Do you believe in luck?

In our research, 2,000 Canadians and 2,000 Americans were asked the question: “Do you believe in luck?” Unsurprisingly, a majority from both regions said they do.

Among Canadians, a solid 64% take luck seriously. Ontario tops the list of believers at 72% , closely followed by British Columbia at 71% , and Alberta holding the third spot with 69% . Manitoba, however, is the province with the least believers at 51% , yet over half in each region express faith in luck.

In the United States, nearly three-quarters, 71% , say luck plays a role in their lives, surpassing Canadians by 11%. Leading the pack is Wisconsin with 77% believers, with Kansas and Indiana at 76% , closely followed by Pennsylvania at 75% . South Dakota, however, sits at the bottom with only 38% admitting to belief in luck. In 20% of the states, fewer than half of the residents believe in luck.

Overall, a significant number in both nations trust or involve themselves in luck-centered beliefs.

Are you superstitious or just a little curious?

Here’s the kicker: A solid majority of both Canadians and Americans feel they have good luck! Specifically, 88% of Canadians and an even larger 91% of Americans consider themselves fortunate.

“Cross your fingers,” “Make a wish,” “Knock on wood.” Such familiar expressions signify the cultural cornerstone of superstitions. Our survey delved further, unveiling the most favored traditions between these two countries.

Having a lucky number tops the chart for Canadians, revered by 51%. Whether it’s 7 or another number, you share in the belief with many. Another popular notion is beginner’s luck (46%) , a phenomenon in new ventures. Moreover, tossing a coin into a fountain to wish (45%) thrives, tracing back to ancient Rome. Knocking on wood wards off ill luck for 40% of Canadians, and 36% rely on the charm of four-leaf clovers.

In America, traditions differ slightly. Crossing fingers wins the popularity contest at 53%. The belief in wishing upon a shooting star captivates 49% of the populace, picked up often at a young age. Similarly, finding a penny remains catchy for 46%. Beginner's luck and knocking on wood resonate with both Canadians and Americans , collectively favored.

Better safe, than sorry!

Given the robust landscape of sports in both Canada and the U.S., we explored sports-related superstitions. Only 21% partake in these habits.

Out of those 21% , a significant 41% wear lucky garments during games, and 33% stick to pre-game routines. Another hopeful 20% watch games from a preferred spot, be it in a pub or a specific seat at the stadium. Just 12% rely on having the same meal, while 9% stick with familiar company.

Methodology

In March 2023 , a survey queried 2,000 Canadians and 2,000 Americans on their perspectives on luck and superstitions. Participants were 52% female , 47% male , and 1% chose to self-identify. The median age of respondents was 36.

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