Each year on the 1st March St David’s Day is marked in Welsh communities across the world, in honour of the patron saint of Wales, Saint David. Don the traditional daffodil or leek and check out one of the many parades and events taking place.
The Legend of St David
The date coincides with the death of St David in 569, whose life was shrouded in mystery. Born around 520 AD on cliffs close to the town that now bears his name, David lived a simple existence within a local monastery he founded. Much of his life is steeped in myth and fable; with many tales circulating of his many ‘miracles’. The most famous of which is the legend which occurred at Llanddewi Brefi where David was struggling to be heard during a sermon within the village, when a dove landed upon his shoulder, causing the ground to swell up into a hill, thereby allowing the large crowd to catch every word of his teachings.
Today many churches across both Wales, and indeed the world, are dedicated to St David.
St David’s Day
The national emblems of Wales are both the daffodil flower and the leek, which the Welsh will proudly sport today, along with the flag of St David; a yellow cross on a black background.
Schools hold their own celebrations, wearing the traditional dress. Local cities and towns hold their own celebrations, with street parades, exhibitions and themed parties all popular. And tomorrow, many of the cultural sights in Wales will offer free admission.
The local press also announced this week that two new domain names will be available to purchase – both .cymru and .wales will be available for the first time ever – truly a 21st way to celebrated St David’s Day!
Dydd Gwyl Dewi Hapus! Happy St David’s Day!
Image credit; Jasssmit via Wikipedia CC
