St George's Day
271 days until St George's Day
About St George's Day
St George's Day, celebrated annually on 23 April, honours the patron saint of England and serves as a day of national reflection and cultural heritage. Though widely commemorated with civic parades, folk music, and red-and-white flags, it remains a standard working day rather than an official bank holiday.
History
The historical St George was a third-century Roman military officer of Greek origin, born in Cappadocia (in present-day Turkey) and martyred in 303 AD in Lydda (modern-day Lod, Israel) after refusing to renounce his Christian faith during persecutions under Emperor Diocletian. His reputation for valour and piety spread throughout the Mediterranean and Europe, eventually capturing the imagination of English knights during the Crusades.
In 1348, King Edward III named St George the patron saint of England and established the prestigious Order of the Garter under his banner. By 1415, St George's Day had been elevated to a major national feast day across the realm. Although public observance waned after the 1707 Act of Union, recent decades have seen a revival in civic festivities, community parades, and cultural events.
Traditions & Celebrations
Observances across England feature the flying of the St George's Cross—a red cross on a white background—from public buildings, town halls, and residential homes. Community celebrations often include Morris dancing, brass band performances, medieval re-enactments featuring dragon plays, and large civic gatherings like the annual festival in London's Trafalgar Square. Many people wear a red rose on their lapel, gather in pubs for traditional English meals, or attend dedicated church services.
Did you know?
- Saint George never set foot in England; he lived and died in the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire.
- The legendary tale of St George slaying a dragon to rescue a town was popularised in Western Europe through the 13th-century text 'The Golden Legend'.
- The 23rd of April is also significant in English literature, marking both the birth and death date of William Shakespeare.
- If 23 April falls during Holy Week or Easter Week, the Church of England and Roman Catholic Church move the religious feast day to the week following Easter.
St George's Day dates by year
Frequently Asked Questions
Is St George's Day a bank holiday in England?
No, St George's Day is an observance rather than a public bank holiday, so schools, shops, and offices remain open as usual.
Why is St George the patron saint of England if he was not English?
Medieval English monarchs and knights adopted St George during the Crusades because he embodied chivalry, courage, and steadfast faith.
Why does the Church date sometimes move?
Ecclesiastical rules dictate that major saints' days cannot be celebrated during Holy Week or the week after Easter, so religious observances are postponed to the Monday after the Second Sunday of Easter when a clash occurs.