Kristina Roberts
Every year on March 1st, Wales comes alive with daffodils, leeks, and the sound of choirs singing in harmony. It’s St. David’s Day, the national day of Wales, a celebration of the country’s patron saint, St. David, and a vibrant showcase of Welsh culture, history, and pride. Whether you’re Welsh by birth, by heritage, or simply by heart, St. David’s Day is a time to embrace the spirit of Wales and honor its enduring legacy.
Who Was St. David?
St. David, or Dewi Sant in Welsh, is the patron saint of Wales, known for his humility, piety, and miraculous deeds. Born in the 6th century in Pembrokeshire, he founded a monastic community in what is now St. Davids, a small city in southwest Wales. His most famous miracle? Restoring the sight of his teacher, St. Paulinus, and causing the ground to rise beneath him so he could be heard by a large crowd during a sermon.
St. David’s final words to his followers were, “Be joyful, keep the faith, and do the little things.” This phrase, “Gwnewch y pethau bychain” in Welsh, has become a motto for the Welsh people, reminding them to find joy in simplicity and to stay true to their values.
How St. David’s Day is Celebrated
St. David’s Day is a vibrant celebration of Welsh identity, filled with traditions that have been passed down through generations. Here’s how the Welsh—and Welsh-at-heart—mark the occasion:
1. Wearing the Symbols of Wales
On St. David’s Day, you’ll see people proudly wearing the national emblems of Wales: the daffodil and the leek. The daffodil, with its bright yellow petals, is a symbol of spring and renewal, while the leek has a more storied history. Legend has it that St. David advised Welsh soldiers to wear leeks in their helmets during a battle against the Saxons to distinguish themselves from the enemy. Today, both symbols are worn with pride.
2. Traditional Welsh Food
No celebration is complete without food, and St. David’s Day is no exception. Traditional Welsh dishes take center stage, including:
- Cawl: A hearty lamb and vegetable stew that warms the soul.
- Welsh Cakes: Sweet, griddle-cooked treats filled with currants or raisins.
- Bara Brith: A fruity tea loaf that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea.
- Glamorgan Sausages: A vegetarian delight made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs.
3. Music and Choirs
Wales is often called the “Land of Song,” and St. David’s Day is the perfect time to experience its musical heritage. From school choirs to professional ensembles, voices unite to sing traditional Welsh songs like “Calon Lân” and “Men of Harlech.” The sound of a Welsh choir is enough to give anyone goosebumps.
4. Parades and Festivals
Cities and towns across Wales host parades and festivals to celebrate St. David’s Day. Cardiff, the capital, is particularly lively, with street performances, markets, and cultural displays. Children often dress in traditional Welsh costumes, with girls wearing tall black hats and red cloaks, and boys sporting waistcoats and flat caps.
5. Eisteddfodau
Eisteddfodau (pronounced eye-steth-vod-eye) are traditional Welsh festivals of literature, music, and performance. These events, which date back to the 12th century, are a cornerstone of Welsh culture and often feature competitions in poetry, singing, and dance.
St. David’s Day Around the World
While St. David’s Day is primarily celebrated in Wales, its spirit reaches far beyond its borders. Welsh communities around the world, from the United States to Australia, host their own celebrations. In cities like New York and London, you’ll find St. David’s Day dinners, concerts, and cultural events that bring people together to honor their Welsh heritage.
Why St. David’s Day Matters
St. David’s Day is more than just a celebration of a saint—it’s a celebration of Welsh identity, resilience, and culture. In a world that often feels divided, this day serves as a reminder of the power of community, tradition, and pride in one’s roots.
For the Welsh, St. David’s Day is a time to reflect on their history, celebrate their language (Cymraeg), and share their culture with the world. It’s a day to wear a daffodil, sing a song, and maybe even try your hand at pronouncing “Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch” (yes, that’s a real place name in Wales).
How You Can Celebrate St. David’s Day
Even if you’re not Welsh, you can still join in the festivities! Here are a few ideas:
- Cook a Welsh meal: Try your hand at making cawl or Welsh cakes.
- Learn a Welsh phrase: Start with “Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus!” (Happy St. David’s Day!).
- Listen to Welsh music: Explore the works of artists like Tom Jones, Charlotte Church, or the Manic Street Preachers.
- Wear a daffodil or leek: Show your support for Wales by donning its national symbols.
Final Thoughts
St. David’s Day is a celebration of all things Welsh—its history, its culture, and its people. It’s a day to be joyful, to keep the faith, and to do the little things that make life meaningful. So, whether you’re in Wales or halfway across the world, take a moment on March 1st to raise a glass (of Welsh whisky, perhaps?) and toast to St. David and the enduring spirit of Wales.
