St David's Day Activities
4 years ago
In Wales we celebrate St David’s Day on the 1st of March each year. This year is a little different, but we can still take part at home. Scroll down for some inspiration.
Send us photos of your St David's Day celebrations on Facebook or Twitter.
Who is St David?
St David is the patron saint of Wales and was believed to be born on a clifftop near Capel Non and descended from Welsh royalty.
He became a renowned preacher and missionary who made a pilgrim to Jerusalem where he became a bishop. He founded monasteries and churches across Britain including St David’s Cathedral which he made his bishop’s seat.
St David refrained from eating meat and instead lived on a diet of bread, herbs and vegetables. He also only drank water.
He allegedly performed miracles, including restoring his tutor’s sight and raising the ground to form a hill so that everyone could hear him preach at the Synod of Brefi.
St David died on March 1st 589AD and was buried at the site of St David’s Cathedral. His legacy continued as many pilgrimages were made to St David, and in 1120AD Pope Callactus II canonised David as a Saint. Following this he was declared Patron Saint of Wales.
How to celebrate St David’s Day at home
Bake Welsh Cakes
Welsh Cakes are traditional in Wales. Enjoy yours with a sprinkling of sugar, a layer of butter, or mix it up with jam. We love this simple recipe by BBC Good Food - Welsh cakes recipe
photo by zingyyellow...! on Flickr
Look for daffodils
Daffodils are blooming at this time of the year and are the national flower of Wales. See if you can find any in your garden or while you’re doing your daily walk?
photo by Princess Ruto on Flickr
Dress up in traditional clothing
The traditional Welsh costume originated from rural parts of Wales and became recognised as a traditional costume by the wives and daughters of the better-off farmers, who wore it for special occasions and when going to market to sell their produce. It was later used when meeting royalty and events such as the Eisteddfod.
Hold your own Eisteddfod
Learn a Welsh song or dance and perform it to your family. Find out about the Eisteddfod below
National Eisteddfod of Wales
Make your own Welsh flag
Can you draw the Welsh dragon? Don’t forget the green grass as well!
Photo by Senedd Cymru / Welsh Parliament on Flickr