Days Until St David's Day

Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus: The Ultimate Guide to St David's Day

The daffodils are blooming, the dragons are flying high, and the smell of Welsh cakes is in the air. From Cardiff to castles in the north, Wales is preparing to turn green, red, and yellow.

If you are searching "How many days until St David's Day?", you are likely preparing to pin a leek to your lapel or dress your child in traditional Welsh costume. It is a day of immense national pride, celebrating the heritage, language, and culture of Cymru (Wales).

Our Live St David's Day Countdown Tool above ensures you know exactly when to start the celebration. But beyond the timer, this guide is your companion. We will explore the legends of St David, why the leek is a national symbol (it involves a battle!), and how to make the perfect bowl of Cawl.

When is St David's Day 2026? (March 1, 2026)

St David's Day is always celebrated on March 1st. This date marks the death of Saint David (Dewi Sant) in 589 AD.

Who Was Saint David?

Unlike the mythical George and the Dragon, David was a real historical figure. Born in the 6th century in Pembrokeshire, he was a Celtic monk, abbot, and bishop who spread Christianity across Wales.

The Miracle of the Hill: His most famous miracle occurred at Llanddewi Brefi. While preaching to a large crowd, the ground beneath his feet is said to have risen up to form a small hill so everyone could see and hear him. A white dove landed on his shoulder—a symbol now associated with him.

"Do the little things": His final words to his followers were simple yet profound: "Gwnewch y pethau bychain" ("Do the little things"). This phrase remains a well-known maxim in Wales today, encouraging kindness and humility.

Leeks and Daffodils: A Botanical Mystery

Why do Welsh people wear vegetables and flowers on March 1st?

• The Leek: Legend says that on the eve of a battle against the Saxons, St David advised the Welsh soldiers to wear leeks in their caps to distinguish themselves from the enemy. They won the battle, and the leek became a national emblem.
• The Daffodil: This is a more recent addition (19th century). The Welsh word for leek is Cenhinen and the word for daffodil is Cenhinen Bedr (Peter's Leek). The confusion—and the fact that daffodils bloom in early March—led to the flower becoming a prettier alternative to wearing a pungent onion!

Wales by the Numbers

The celebration of St David's Day is a driver for tourism and cultural preservation. Here is a look at the impact.

Your Countdown Strategy: How to Celebrate

Whether you are in Swansea or Sydney, here is how to bring a bit of Wales into your life as the timer hits zero.

St David Across the World

The Welsh diaspora ensures the dragon flag flies globally on March 1st.

• Patagonia, Argentina: There is a Welsh-speaking colony (Y Wladfa) in Chubut Province that celebrates enthusiastically with tea houses and singing.
• Disneyland Paris: Often hosts a St David's Day festival with fireworks and Welsh choirs.
• USA: The Empire State Building in New York has been lit up in red, green, and white to honor the day.

Frequently Asked Questions