Days Until St. Andrew's Day

Celebrating Scotland: The Ultimate Guide to St. Andrew's Day

The bagpipes are tuning up, the haggis is being plated, and the Saltire flag is flying high. It is time to celebrate Scotland's national day and its patron saint.

If you are asking "How many days until St. Andrew's Day?", you are likely preparing for a ceilidh (dance), planning a Scottish feast, or simply want to honor your heritage. Falling at the end of November, this holiday marks the beginning of Scotland's winter festival season, leading into Hogmanay (New Year's) and Burns Night.

Our Live St. Andrew's Day Countdown Tool above ensures you don't miss a moment. But beyond the timer, this guide is your comprehensive resource. We will explore the legend of the saint who never even visited Scotland, the meaning of the flag, and how to celebrate like a true Scot, no matter where you are in the world.

When is St. Andrew's Day 2026? (November 30, 2026)

St. Andrew's Day is celebrated annually on November 30. It is a fixed date that does not change.

Who Was St. Andrew?

The story of Scotland's patron saint is a mix of biblical history and medieval legend.

The Fisherman: Andrew was a fisherman in Galilee (modern-day Israel) and one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. He was the brother of Simon Peter. He was never Scottish and never set foot in Scotland.

The X-Shaped Cross: Legend says Andrew was martyred by the Romans in Patras, Greece. He felt unworthy to be crucified on the same type of cross as Jesus, so he asked to be tied to an X-shaped cross (crux decussata). This shape is now the white cross on the Scottish flag.

The Scottish Connection: Legend tells of a monk named St. Regulus who brought Andrew's relics (bones) from Greece to Scotland in the 4th century. He shipwrecked on the east coast at a place now called St. Andrews.

The Battle of Athelstaneford (832 AD): King Angus II led an army of Picts and Scots against the Angles. Surrounded and praying for victory, he saw white clouds form an 'X' against the blue sky. He vowed that if he won, Andrew would be the patron saint. He won, and the Saltire flag was born.

The Economics of Scottish Heritage

St. Andrew's Day kicks off a vital economic period for Scotland, promoting tourism, food exports, and cultural events globally.

How to Celebrate: Traditions and Customs

Use our days until saint Andrew's Day timer to prepare for a proper Scottish shindig.

• The Ceilidh (Kay-lee): A traditional social gathering involving Gaelic folk music and dancing. It is energetic, chaotic, and incredibly fun. Popular dances include the "Gay Gordons" and "Dashing White Sergeant."
• The Feast: While Burns Night (Jan 25) has a strict menu, St. Andrew's Day is a broader celebration of Scottish produce. Expect Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties (turnips and potatoes), Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup), and lamb.
• Flying the Saltire: The blue flag with the white diagonal cross is flown from public buildings across Scotland.
• Acts of Kindness: In recent years, there has been a push to make the day about community spirit—sharing food and helping neighbors, reflecting St. Andrew's reputation for sharing.

Saint Andrew Around the World

Scotland isn't the only country that claims him. St. Andrew is an international superstar.

Barbados: St. Andrew is the patron saint, and November 30 is their Independence Day. The national symbol features two sugar cane stalks in the shape of St. Andrew's cross.

Romania: It is a national holiday. Traditions involve putting wheat in a cup to see how high it grows by New Year, predicting the year's luck. It is also a night associated with warding off spirits (like Halloween).

Ukraine & Russia: He is a patron saint here too, credited with preaching in these lands. The highest order of the Russian Federation is the Order of St. Andrew.

Frequently Asked Questions