St. David's Day
Posted by Tartanista on 29th Mar 2022
St. David's Day takes place on the 1st of March every year, and is celebrated as the patron saint day of Wales. It has been recognised since the 12th century, and St. David even has his own flag - a yellow cross on a black background.
Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus (dee-the goil De-wi ha-peece) - Happy St David's Day 
Who was St. David?
St. David was born on the South-West Wales coast. He grew up to be a priest, being educated at the monastery of Hen Fynyw under St. Paulinus. Becoming a missionary and well-known preacher, David travelled throughout Wales and Britain.
St. David performed many miracles; the most famous took place when he was preaching to a large crowd in Llanddewi Brefi. When people at the back complained that they could not hear him, the ground on which he stood rose up to form a hill. A white dove, sent by God, settled on his shoulder.
St David died on the 1st of March 589 A.D.
How do we celebrate St. David’s Day?
People celebrate St. David’s Day by wearing a daffodil or a leek, which are the symbols of Wales and St. David respectively. Children enjoy traditional Welsh dances, singing Welsh folk songs and reciting Welsh poetry.
There is a St. David's Day parade held in the centre of Cardiff every year, as well as numerous feasts, parades and celebrations throughout Wales and the rest of the world.
Why are leeks and daffodils worn/associated with St. David's Day?
Leeks are worn in remembrance of St. David's guidance in a battle against their common enemy, the Saxons. Supposedly, he instructed the Welsh warriors to wear leeks, so that they could be distinguished from their opponents. The Welsh won the battle, and leeks became a national symbol.
Daffodils are one of the first flowers of spring, and the most symbolic. They begin blooming in early March, which coincides with St. David’s Day. Funnily enough, the Welsh for leek, Cenhinen, sounds very similar to the Welsh for daffodil, Cenhinen Pedr, which translates to "Peter's Leek".
What should I wear to a St. David’s Day celebration or feast?
Children often wear traditional Welsh dress. Girls wear a petticoat and overcoat, made of Welsh flannel, and a tall hat, worn over a frilled bonnet.
Boys wear a white shirt, a Welsh flannel waistcoat, black trousers, long wool socks and black shoes. The outfits originated during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Kilt outfits, with kilts, Ghillie shirts, sporrans, kilt hose and pipe band accessories, will be worn at many St. David's Day parades. You can add on Welsh dragon kilt pins, Welsh tartan sock flashes, or red dragon embroidered socks to complete your traditional Welsh outfit. Alternatively, a Welsh tie is a nice tribute to wear on St. David's day. Style it with a daffodil or leek pin!
Welsh Tartan Ties Welsh Dragon Kilt Hose/Socks
