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1st March is celebrated as St. David's Day - a Welsh celebration that involves lots of feasting commemorating the patron saint of Wales. Within this article, you will learn about who this patron saint was and why he is celebrated.

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The Patron Saint of Wales; who was he?

Saint David (known as Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Sant in Welsh) is the patron saint of Wales and one of the greatest figures within the 6th century. St. David was a native-born patron saint famous because of his teachings and his asceticism lifestyle being able to pursue a more spiritual understanding. He was a founder of many religious communities throughout Wales as well as the famous St. David’s Cathedral.  He was a widely respected Saint throughout Wales amassing a huge number of followers. March 1st is believed to be the day of his death and the day in which he is celebrated; and has been celebrated for centuries afterwards.

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                                                                                                                                                                                                                St. David's Cathedral

How is it celebrated?

St. David’s Day is usually celebrated with traditional dress and feasting, with people donning St. David’s cross – singing songs of the Saint. One of the traditional ways people commemorate St. David is to wear a daffodil or a leek (St. David’s symbol).

Some classic food typically ate on this day is Cawl ( a traditional Welsh soup made with lamb, beef, potatoes, leeks, carrots and swede), Bara brith (a bread made with dried fruit and mixed spices – perfect for tea), Welsh cakes, Welsh lamb and rarebit. If you happen to be a student at the University of Exeter you can partake in the annual “Beer race” to celebrate the day.

                                                

                                                                                                                                                        Traditional Welsh cuisine 

The third lockdown is still in effect however you can still celebrate St. David's Day with those that live with you in your household, pick up some ingredients and have a go at making some classic Welsh food. Check out this great recipe from the Hairy Bikers at BBC Food