Every year on April 23rd, England celebrates its patron saint with St George's Day. While perhaps less internationally famous than St Patrick's Day or other national celebrations, St George's Day carries centuries of tradition and offers a wonderful opportunity for English Australians to connect with their heritage. This guide explores the history, traditions, and modern ways to celebrate this important day.
The Origins of St George's Day
St George's Day has been celebrated in England since at least the early 13th century, though the feast day itself predates this by several centuries. April 23rd was established as George's feast day because this was believed to be the date of his martyrdom in 303 AD.
The celebration gained significant prominence in 1415 following Henry V's victory at the Battle of Agincourt. The Archbishop of Canterbury declared St George's Day a major feast day, on par with Christmas, requiring the day off from work and mandatory church attendance. For centuries thereafter, St George's Day was one of England's most important annual celebrations.
📅 A Notable Coincidence
April 23rd is also believed to be both the birth date and death date of William Shakespeare (1564-1616). This remarkable coincidence links England's patron saint with its greatest literary figure, adding another layer of cultural significance to the date.
Traditional Celebrations
Historical Customs
Historically, St George's Day was marked by various customs that have evolved over the centuries:
- Church Services: Special services honoured Saint George, with churches decorated with red and white
- Parades: Towns and cities held processions featuring dragon motifs and St George imagery
- Feast Days: Traditional English foods were served at community gatherings
- Morris Dancing: This traditional English folk dance often featured in celebrations
- Mummers' Plays: Traditional dramatic performances retelling the legend of St George and the Dragon
The Red Rose Tradition
Wearing or displaying red roses on St George's Day is a cherished tradition. The red rose has been associated with England since the Wars of the Roses in the 15th century, when the House of Lancaster (red rose) eventually merged with the House of York (white rose) to form the Tudor dynasty. The red rose became a symbol of England, making it a natural companion to St George's Day celebrations.
Modern Celebrations in England
After a period of relative decline in the 20th century, St George's Day has experienced a revival in recent decades. Modern celebrations include:
Public Events
- Trafalgar Square: London hosts a major annual celebration with live music, food stalls, and entertainment
- City Festivals: Cities like Nottingham, Manchester, and Birmingham hold St George's Day events
- Pub Celebrations: Traditional English pubs often host special events with English ales and traditional food
- Scout and Guide Events: St George is the patron saint of the Scout movement, making this a significant day for youth organisations
🔑 Ways to Celebrate
- Display the St George's Cross flag at home or work
- Wear a red rose or red and white clothing
- Prepare traditional English foods for family and friends
- Attend or organise a community celebration
- Learn about English history and share it with others
- Listen to or perform traditional English music
Celebrating in Australia
For the hundreds of thousands of English-born Australians and their descendants, St George's Day offers a special opportunity to celebrate heritage while living far from England. Here's how to make the most of the day Down Under:
Community Events
Several Australian cities host St George's Day celebrations organised by English heritage groups and expatriate communities. Check with your local English social club, Rose of England society, or British expatriate groups for events in your area. Major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide often have organised celebrations.
Home Celebrations
Even without formal events, you can create meaningful celebrations at home:
- Decorate with Flags: Display St George's Cross flags, bunting, and red and white decorations
- Traditional Meal: Prepare English favourites like roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, fish and chips, or a full English breakfast
- English Drinks: Stock up on English ales, ciders, or a proper cup of English tea
- Music: Play traditional English music or songs like "Jerusalem" and "Land of Hope and Glory"
- Share Stories: Talk to children about English history and family heritage
✅ Traditional St George's Day Menu Ideas
- Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding and horseradish
- Fish and chips with mushy peas
- Shepherd's pie or cottage pie
- Bangers and mash with onion gravy
- Spotted dick or treacle pudding for dessert
- Victoria sponge cake or Bakewell tart
Educational Activities
St George's Day provides an excellent opportunity for learning, especially for younger family members:
- Read the legend of St George and the Dragon together
- Explore English history through documentaries or books
- Create St George's Day crafts—flags, shields, or dragon artwork
- Play English traditional games like cricket or bowls
- Video call family members in England to share the celebration
The Growing Revival
In recent years, there has been a marked increase in St George's Day celebrations both in England and among English communities worldwide. This revival reflects a broader interest in cultural heritage and national identity. Unlike some national days that have become heavily commercialised, St George's Day retains an authentic, community-focused character.
In Australia, the growing English Australian population—both recent migrants and established families—has contributed to increased interest in marking the day. Social media has helped connect dispersed communities, making it easier to share celebration ideas and organise events.
Addressing Common Questions
Is St George's Day a Public Holiday?
Unfortunately, St George's Day is not a public holiday in either England or Australia. Unlike St Patrick's Day in Ireland or Australia Day in Australia, April 23rd remains a regular working day. However, there have been periodic campaigns in England to grant the day public holiday status.
Can Non-English People Celebrate?
Absolutely! St George's Day celebrations are open and welcoming to all. Whether you have English heritage, admire English culture, or simply enjoy a good celebration, you're welcome to participate. The day celebrates English culture and history, and sharing that with others is part of its spirit.
Conclusion
St George's Day offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate English heritage and culture, whether you're in England, Australia, or anywhere in the world. From traditional customs like wearing red roses and eating roast beef to modern celebrations with flags, music, and community events, there are countless ways to honour England's patron saint.
For English Australians, the day serves as an important connection to roots and heritage. By celebrating St George's Day, you're not only honouring a centuries-old tradition but also helping to keep English culture vibrant in your adopted home. Mark April 23rd in your calendar, prepare your St George's Cross flag, and join millions of people in celebrating this important day.