Wales National Day

Wales National Day

BOOK HOTELS & FLIGHTS

Book stays for Wales National Day

AREA

Check hotel prices

OneSliders may earn a commission if you book through Booking.com.

  1. 589Traditional date associated with Saint David's death
  2. 1120St David became recognised as Welsh patron saint
  3. 2000Public celebrations grew in modern Wales

The story behind St David's Day

Wales celebrates St David's Day on 1 March, honouring Dewi Sant, the country's patron saint. The date is rooted in church tradition and Welsh identity rather than a single modern state-founding event.

Over time the day became a celebration of Welsh language, music, dress and symbols. Schools, choirs and local councils helped turn it into the most recognisable annual Welsh national celebration.

Today Wales marks the day with daffodils, leeks, red dragon flags, parades, concerts and school eisteddfodau. Cardiff has the largest civic programme, but village halls and schools are just as important to the atmosphere.

  1. 20261 March 2026 · Sunday
  2. 20271 March 2027 · Monday
  3. 20281 March 2028 · Wednesday
The Welsh flag
Wales flag

The Welsh flag shows a red dragon on a white and green field. The dragon is an ancient Welsh symbol, while the green and white colours are linked with the Tudor dynasty and later Welsh national identity.

St David's Day food is warm, local and seasonal, with leeks, lamb, cheese and baking at the centre.

What to eat

CawlTraditional soup or stew with lamb and leeks
Welsh cakesSmall griddle cakes with currants, served warm
Bara brithTea loaf with dried fruit
Welsh rarebitCheese sauce on toast, often with ale or mustard
LambWelsh lamb served roasted or in stews
Leek tartA savoury dish built around the national vegetable symbol

What to drink

TeaServed with Welsh cakes and bara brith
Welsh aleLocal beer served in pubs and food events
CiderCommon in rural and festival settings
Explore food & drink events ->

Welsh culture on St David's Day

The day is a bright display of Welsh language, music and symbols.

Daffodils and leeksThe two most visible St David's Day emblems
Eisteddfod traditionPoetry, song and performance competitions shape school events
Male voice choirsChoral music is strongly associated with Welsh identity
Red dragon flagsThe dragon appears on streets, clothing and public buildings