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March 1st

March 1st is St David's Day. St. David (c.520-588), or Dewi as he is called in Welsh, is the patron saint of Wales. He was the son of a cheftain from Cardigan, Wales. He founded twelve monasteries across the country from Croyland to Pembrokeshire and went on pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Once there he was consecrated a bishop. His life and work made a lasting impression on Wales.

It is believed that St. David was born in the 6th Century in Henfynw in Cardigan. His principal monastery were he was the founder and first abbot-bishop of Menevia, is now called St. David's in Dyfed, South Wales.

Celebrations

Every year parades are held in Wales to commemorate St. David's Day. The largest of these is held in Cardiff and is formally attended by either the British Monarch or the Prince of Wales.

In Wales children often wear a special St David's Day costume, instead of their usualy school uniform.

St David's day isn't as wild as St Patrick's day in Ireland, however it is commemorated by patriotic Welsh people by wearing a daffodil or, believe it or not, a leek. Both plants are traditionally regarded as the national emblems of Wales and the traditional dish to eat on St. David's Day is leeks. Leek and potato soup is nice.

Symbols of St David's Day

Dragons Leeks Daffodils
Dragon(s) Leek(s) Daffodil(s)
  Welsh flag  
  The Welsh flag  

 

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