How and where to celebrate St David's Day in Wales

St David’s Day is more than a date on the calendar - it’s a celebration of everything that makes Cymru special. From school Eisteddfods to colourful parades, communities across Cymru and around the world come together to share our culture, language, and heritage with pride.

We’re a nation united by tradition and spirit. Every 1 March is our chance to show it off - whether through grand parades, heartfelt performances or those small, everyday acts of Welshness. Saint David’s story still inspires us today. Born on a stormy clifftop, he went on to shape Wales’ spiritual heritage and build communities across the land. His legacy lives on in this vibrant celebration of Welsh identity – a day to honour our past and embrace our future.

Celebrate Welsh culture this St David’s Day - and make it unforgettable.

Join an organised event and soak up the sights and sounds of Cymru. Expect traditional music, lively folk dancing and community activities that bring our heritage to life.

And don’t miss the flavours of Wales! From steaming bowls of cawl to sweet slices of bara brith and freshly griddled Welsh cakes, these gatherings serve up a true taste of tradition.

Check our listings to find an event near you taking place closer to March.

Across Cymru, parades bring communities together in a colourful celebration of heritage. The National St David’s Day Parade in Caerdydd is the biggest, featuring cultural groups, schoolchildren, musicians, and locals in traditional dress. Expect a sea of Welsh flags, plus the striking black-and-yellow flag of St David, as the procession moves from the Civic Centre to the Hayes for a rousing rendition of Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.

Other towns like Aberystwyth, Wrecsam, Caerfyrddin (Carmarthen), Llanbedr Pont Steffan (Lampeter), and Bae Colwyn (Colwyn Bay) host their own lively processions. For a festival vibe, head to Croeso in Swansea, a two-day extravaganza of music, food, and family fun, or enjoy artisan treats at the St David’s Day Food & Drink Festival in Pembrey Country Park.

Visit Britain’s smallest city and its iconic cathedral for a cultural day out. Established by our patron saint, pretty Ty Ddewi  in south west Pembrokeshire doesn’t have much in common with big metropolises like Birmingham or London. But thanks to the presence of its huge, purple-stoned cathedral, this settlement of around 2000 people is officially the UK’s smallest city. It’s also the religious centre of Cymru, with two trips here traditionally said to be worth one pilgrimage to Rome.

There’s plenty that happens on or around 1 March. The little city brings out the bunting for a weekend of events in St Davids Cathedral and around the town. There’s the annual Dragon Parade from Oriel y Parc, while the Ras Dewi Sant marathon is a tough endurance challenge set amidst some terrific scenery. The route takes runners through the undulating paths of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path around the St Davids Peninsula, before culminating with a climb up a steep set of steps in the grounds of the cathedral. Half-marathon and 10k options are also available.

Saint David was said to have come from royal stock (his father was a king of Ceredigion), so it only feels fitting to celebrate his special day with a visit to one of the magnificent castles that are strewn across the Welsh landscape.

These include big hitters like the UNESCO World Heritage Site castles at Biwmares (Beaumaris), Caernarfon, Conwy and Harlech, plus lesser-known spots like lonely Llansteffan, Dolbadarn and Castell y Bere built by native Welsh princes. With more than 400 to choose from, you’re certain to find a fortress to fit your mood – some of which will put on special shows and events for St David’s Day.

Tour legendary castles like Caernarfon, Conwy, and Caerdydd for a royal experience.

Show your pride by adding a touch of Cymru to your outfit. Pin a bright yellow daffodil to your coat, a fresh leek tucked into your lapel, or even a splash of red to echo the dragon on our flag – these small gestures speak volumes.

They’re easy, meaningful symbols of Welshness and guaranteed to spark a smile. So pop on that daffodil, share the hwyl, and let everyone know you’re celebrating St David’s Day in true Welsh style.

St David’s Day isn’t just about parades, daffodils, and delicious Welsh cakes – it’s also a chance to embrace the language that lies at the heart of our culture. Welsh is one of Europe’s oldest living languages, rich with history and full of lyrical charm.

Even if you’re new to it, learning a few simple phrases can make the day extra special. Start with 'Shwmae' (hello) and 'Diolch' (thank you) – two words that carry warmth and connection. Share them with friends, and feel the hwyl (fun) that comes from speaking a little Welsh.

What better way to celebrate St David's Day than by following the wise words of Saint David himself, who instructed his followers to ‘gwnewch y pethau bychain’ – do the little things. 

There are lots of little Random Acts of Welshness you can do to spread the hwyl (fun) and kindness, and get yourself into the festive spirit. You could don a traditional Welsh hat, try a bracing sea dip at a beautiful Welsh beach, or even give someone a traditional Welsh cwtsh (cuddle).

Fuel your epic St David’s celebrations with a taste of Cymru. Join a Welsh cooking class to learn how to make homemade Welsh cakes and Bara Brith -then see who can bake the best! Or, when you get home, cook up a hearty bowl of Cawl or delicious Glamorgan sausages for the ultimate Welsh feast.

Simple, delicious, and full of tradition – the perfect way to celebrate 1 March in true Welsh style.

Turn up the hwyl by exploring the sounds of Cymru. From stirring folk tunes to modern Welsh artists, music is a perfect way to celebrate St David’s Day. Check out our curated Spotify playlist packed with Welsh classics and contemporary hits - the ultimate soundtrack for 1 March.
 

Discover our Cymru YouTube Shorts Playlist – your quick escape into the heart of Welsh culture. Enjoy traditional music, lively dance, fun facts, and festive ideas in bite-sized clips. Perfect for sharing and spreading the joy of Cymru wherever you are. Dive in and celebrate with us!

Join us in celebrating St David’s Day - discover even more ways to make it special. We hope this guide inspires you to mark the day in your own unique way!

Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus.