March 1st is a day of pride, joy, and celebration for the Welsh people. It’s St. David’s Day, the feast day of Wales’ patron saint, St. David (or Dewi Sant in Welsh). Across Wales and beyond, people come together to honor their heritage, celebrate their culture, and revel in the beauty of their traditions. From daffodils and leeks to choirs and cawl, St. David’s Day is a vibrant reminder of what makes Wales so special.
The Story of St. David
St. David, the humble monk who became Wales’ patron saint, lived in the 6th century. Born in Pembrokeshire, he founded a monastic community in what is now the city of St. Davids, home to the stunning St. Davids Cathedral. Known for his piety and simplicity, St. David was said to perform miracles, including restoring his teacher’s sight and causing the ground to rise beneath him so he could be heard by a crowd during a sermon.
His final words to his followers were, “Gwnewch y pethau bychain”— “Do the little things.” This phrase has become a guiding principle for the Welsh, reminding them to find joy in simplicity and to stay true to their values.
How Wales Celebrates St. David’s Day
St. David’s Day is a time for the Welsh to come together and celebrate their identity. Here’s how the day is marked:
1. Wearing the National Emblems
On St. David’s Day, you’ll see people proudly wearing the daffodil and the leek, two symbols deeply rooted in Welsh culture. The daffodil, with its bright yellow petals, is a cheerful sign of spring, while the leek has a more storied history. According to legend, 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. Feasting on Traditional Welsh Food
Food plays a central role in St. David’s Day celebrations. Traditional Welsh dishes take center stage, including:
- Cawl: A hearty lamb and vegetable stew, perfect for a chilly March day.
- 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. Singing and Music
Wales is known as 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 stir the soul and bring a tear to the eye.
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 Beyond Wales
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.
