St. George’s Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about St. George’s Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. St. George’s Day is observed on April 23rd.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of St. George’s Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you may want to know about St. George’s Day.

📅 What day is St. George’s Day 2024?

In 2024, St. George’s Day is on Sunday, April 23rd. It is the 4th Sunday in April; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the cool details and facts about April 23, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Here are a few lesser-known facts about St. George’s Day that you might not know:

📜 St. George’s Day History

St. George, originally from what is now Turkey, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a soldier in the Roman army. He quickly rose through the ranks and became Emperor Diocletian’s personal guard. However, when the emperor ordered the persecution of Christians, St. George refused to participate and was tortured and killed in 303 A.D. He was then buried in Palestine.

One famous legend surrounding St. George involves him saving the town of Silene from a dragon. The dragon had taken control of the town, demanding a human sacrifice every day. When St. George happened to be visiting, a princess was chosen as the sacrifice. St. George intervened, slaying the dragon and freeing the people of Silene. In gratitude, the villagers converted to Christianity.

In the past, St. George’s Day celebrations were as significant as Christmas. However, by the late 18th century, the enthusiasm for the holiday had diminished after the merger of England and Scotland in 1707. In recent times, there have been efforts and petitions to make St. George’s Day a public holiday in England. Other countries that honor St. George include Greece, Portugal, Bulgaria, Ethiopia, and Russia. In addition to St. George’s Day, there are other holidays dedicated to him, such as April 23 and a few in November and December.

✅ St. George’s Day Facts

🔖 He is also linked to agriculture
St. George’s celebration occurs during the springtime, and his name signifies someone who works with the earth. During medieval times in Europe, individuals would seek blessings and a prosperous harvest by offering prayers to St. George.

🔖 The Reformation had reservations
Despite being deemed as an implausible story, the tale of St. George managed to withstand criticism and remains widely embraced in present times.

🔖 St. George had some competition…
Edmund the Martyr, Edward the Confessor, and Gregory the Great all aspired to become the patron saint of the kingdom.

👍 Why Is St. George’s Day Important

This day honors English culture. We can drink tea, play polo, eat fish and chips, and fly the English flag without fear of repercussions.
St. George’s Day, which began as a religious feast day, now spans religions and countries, spanning from the Middle East to Russia, Central Europe, and the Iberian Peninsula.
According to a 1,000-year-old tale, St. George slayed a dragon and saved a princess while serving in the Roman army.

🙂 How To Observe St. George’s Day

⚡ Head to the capital

⚡ Wear a rose
Why is a single red rose significant? Well, it’s rooted in tradition. Legend has it that St. George, a true hero, presented a red rose to a princess he rescued from a fearsome dragon. This act made him the ultimate symbol of charm and romance.

⚡ Fly the (English) flag
Every English city has its own St. George’s Day celebrations, but London hosts the primary event. With its many pubs (all of which fly the English flag), parades, shopping, and amazing fireworks show, London is the place to be on this very English holiday.

📅 When is St. George’s Day?

Discover all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Federal and other 🔗 Historical holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about St. George’s Day. So be sure to check back soon.