March 1st – Wales’ National Day of Pride
Who Was St David (Dewi Sant)?
Known for his austere lifestyle, David lived on a diet of vegetables and water, rejecting meat and alcohol. His commitment to simplicity made him a model of humility, and his influence shaped generations of followers. Beyond his religious role, David was also a political and social figure. He is credited with uniting Welsh kingdoms, advocating for peace and reconciliation, and speaking against slavery, actions that elevated his influence beyond the church.
Before his death on 1 March 589, his final words became legendary:
“Gwnewch y pethau bychain” — “Do the little things.”
In 1120, Pope Callixtus II canonised him as the patron saint of Wales, and his shrine at St Davids Cathedral became one of the most important pilgrimage sites in medieval Britain. Pilgrims believed that visiting his shrine twice equalled one journey to Rome. Even today, cultural traditions connected to his legacy—whether through parades, national dress, or the weaving of plaid fabric in Welsh tartans—continue to honour his enduring influence.
Symbols of St David’s Day
Leeks
The leek has been a Welsh emblem for centuries. Tradition says Welsh soldiers wore leeks in their helmets to distinguish themselves in battle. It is also linked to St David’s vegetarian diet, strengthening its role as a national symbol.
Daffodils
The daffodil bloomed later as a national emblem, likely because it flowers in March. Today, daffodils are pinned proudly to clothing across Wales on St David’s Day, offering a bright, seasonal counterpart to the leek.
Welsh Flags
- Red Dragon (Y Ddraig Goch): Wales’ national flag, representing strength and resilience.
- St David’s Cross: A yellow cross on a black background, increasingly popular at parades, churches, and rugby matches.
Both flags appear side by side on 1 March, uniting ancient heritage with modern expression.
How Wales Celebrates St David’s Day Today
Though rooted in history, St David’s Day has evolved into a vibrant cultural festival. Each year, Wales honours its patron saint through parades, pilgrimages, festivals, and family traditions.
- Cardiff Parade: The capital hosts the largest National St David’s Day Parade, featuring schools, bands, and cultural groups.
- Swansea’s Croeso Festival: A celebration of Welsh food, music, and community spirit.
- St Davids Cathedral: Pilgrims and visitors gather in Britain’s smallest city, Pembrokeshire, for services and a dragon parade.
- Ras Dewi Sant: A coastal marathon through the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
- Schools & National Dress: Schools & National Dress: Children wear traditional Welsh costumes or pin leeks and daffodils, performing songs and poetry in eisteddfodau (competitions in music, literature, and performance). Many adults also show pride by wearing a tartan kilt or accessories that reflect Welsh colours and heritage.
- Museums & Castles: Organisations like Cadw and the National Trust offer free entry and special events.
- Traditional Gifts:Intricately carved Welsh lovespoons are sometimes given as tokens of affection, continuing a centuries-old custom.
Traditional Welsh Foods on St David’s Day
Food is central to the celebration, with traditional dishes served at home and at festivals. These recipes not only nourish but also carry the flavours of Welsh history.
- Cawl: A hearty lamb or beef stew with leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables.
- Bara Brith: A fruit loaf soaked in tea, sliced thick and buttered.
- Welsh Cakes: Small griddle cakes dusted with sugar.
- Welsh Rarebit: Toasted bread topped with a rich cheese sauce.
- Glamorgan Sausages: A vegetarian dish made from cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs.
- Teisen Lap: A traditional Welsh fruit cake.
Many modern chefs reimagine these dishes with contemporary twists, but their traditional forms remain beloved across Wales.
Welsh Kilts & Tartans: A Living Heritage
Clothing also plays a role in St David’s Day, with kilts and tartans expressing pride in Welsh heritage. While kilts are often associated with Scotland, Wales has its own unique traditions.
- Welsh “Cilt”: Similar to the kilt but woven in distinct Welsh patterns.
- St David’s Tartan (Brithwe Dewi Sant): A universal tartan, not tied to clans, making it accessible for anyone to wear. Its colours reflect Wales’ flag: black, yellow, green, and red.
- Other Tartans: The Cymru tartan and Welsh National Tartan are also popular among heritage groups and fashion enthusiasts.
- When Worn: From parades and rugby matches to weddings, choir performances, and cultural festivals, tartans connect modern Wales with its ancestry.
Lesser-Known Facts About St David
- He is also the patron saint of vegetarians, due to his belief in the importance of a simple diet.
- Saint David is said to have performed many miracles during his lifetime, including the restoration of a blind man’s sight and the revival of a dead child.
- He is often depicted holding a leek, which is one of the national emblems of Wales and a symbol of Saint David’s Day.
- Saint David died on March 1st, which is why his feast day is celebrated on that date.
Why St David’s Day Still Matters Today
- Cultural Pride: A unifying day of music, food, language, and tradition.
- Modern Relevance: His motto “Do the little things” still inspires small acts of kindness and cultural pride.
- Global Reach: Welsh communities across the world—from New York and Chicago to Patagonia, Argentina, and Sydney, Australia—mark the day with concerts, parades, and gatherings, showcasing how Welsh heritage travels far beyond its borders.
“Frequently Asked Questions”
Who was St David?
St David was a 6th-century bishop, preacher, and miracle worker. He is the patron saint of Wales, canonised in 1120.
What do Welsh people eat on St David’s Day?
Popular dishes include cawl, Welsh cakes, bara brith, rarebit, Glamorgan sausages, and teisen lap.
Why are leeks & daffodils worn?
Leeks were worn in battle and linked to St David’s diet; daffodils bloom in March and became a national flower.
What’s the difference between the Welsh dragon flag & St David’s cross?
The red dragon flag is the national flag of Wales, while the St David’s cross (yellow on black) is tied directly to the saint.
Can anyone wear St David’s tartan?
Yes — unlike Scottish tartans tied to clans, the St David’s tartan is universal, open to everyone.
Is St David’s Day a public holiday?
Not officially. While it is widely celebrated across Wales, it is not yet a designated bank holiday, though campaigns continue to push for this recognition.
When did St David die?
He died on 1 March 589 AD, the date still honoured every year.
