Source: Freepik
St. David’s Day (March 1st)
March 1st marks the death of missionary Saint David, one of the patron saints of Wales. Apart from his significant contributions to the church, he also displayed notable military prowess. In the 6th century, leading the Welsh army, he instructed soldiers to place leeks on their helmets to differentiate friend from foe, eventually driving away the Saxons. To commemorate him, the Welsh wear daffodils on their attire. However, this isn't a UK-wide public holiday, being limited only to Wales.
Source: Freepik
St. George’s Day is another holiday commemorating a patron saint. Legend has it that Saint George, born in Turkey, saved a princess by slaying a dragon, with the spilled dragon blood forming a cross, now the symbol on the English flag. However, celebrations for St. George aren't as extensive as for the other patron saints and are mostly confined to England.
Exclusive to Scotland and Northern Ireland, Orangemen’s Day, also known as The Twelfth, commemorates the Protestant king's victory over the Catholic king in the 1690 'Battle of Boyne'. Participants dress in neat black suits with orange sashes and parade in remembrance of this event.
Also called Guy Fawkes Night, it marks the day in 1605 when Roman Catholic Guy Fawkes, along with others, plotted to assassinate the Protestant King James I and blow up the Parliament. They were captured and executed for treason.
To celebrate the king's survival, he allowed public bonfires. Today, certain regions in the UK, like Battersea Park and Alexandra Palace, still hold grand celebrations, with fireworks and markets.
Initially called "Armistice Day" and established by King George V on November 7th, 1919, its purpose is to remember military sacrifices, reflect on the devastations of war, and alert people about its severity.
Every November 11th, a two-minute silence is observed across the UK in memory of those who perished in the World Wars, followed by a "Remembrance Sunday" event. Ceremonies, attended by royalty, politicians, and the public, take place at the Peace Tower and the Cenotaph.
Source: Unsplash
