St. Andrew’s Day 2023: St. Andrew’s Day, observed annually on November 30, is a national holiday throughout Europe and Scotland. Saint Andrew, an apostle renowned for his role in safeguarding Scotland against Northumberland and introducing his sibling Peter to Jesus, was also instrumental in securing the safety of Scottish King Oengus I during a pivotal battle against Northumberland.
Saint Andrew is venerated in Scotland, Romania, Greece, and numerous other European nations. In Greece in 60 AD, St. Andrew was crucified on a saltire, or cross in the form of a “X”; he was a martyr.
An Overview Of Saint Andrew’s Day
St. Andrew, an apostle of Jesus, is unquestionably regarded as the patron saint of Scotland. Thus, feasts have been observed in Andrew’s honor in Scotland since the year 1000 AD, which is more than a millennium. But it was not until Scotland’s proclamation of independence in 1320 that he was formally designated as the patron saint of Scotland. After that, Andrew integrated himself into the nation. In his honor, the St. Andrew’s Cross was designated as the national flag of Scotland. Furthermore, the ancient municipality of St Andrews obtained its name from its purported status as the location of his ultimate resting place.
What makes him so vital to Scotland?
According to the New Testament, Andrew was present alongside Jesus during several significant events. For instance, Andrew related the parable of the child carrying the loaves and fishes to Jesus, and Philip informed Andrew beforehand of the Greeks who were seeking Him before proceeding to tell Jesus. Andrew was in attendance at the Last Supper and was among the four disciples who approached Jesus on the Mount of Olives with inquiries concerning the indications of His imminent return at the “end of the age.”
Strangely enough, St. Andrew’s Day is associated with the United States. In 1729, a cohort of affluent Scottish immigrants established the “St Andrew’s Society of Charleston” in Charleston, South Carolina. In fact, it is the oldest Scottish society of its kind in the entire globe. It gained widespread recognition in the area for its assistance to widows and dependents. Additionally, “The St Andrew’s Society of the State of New York” holds the distinction of being the state’s earliest registered charity. Founded in 1756 by local Scotsmen desiring to assist the impoverished and distressed, the organization was initially situated in Scotland. St. Andrew’s societies have subsequently proliferated across the globe.
Presently, St. Andrew’s Day is one of the three most significant dates in the winter season. Scotland’s Winter Festival takes place annually on November 30 to commemorate Andrew and spread merriment. Throughout the night, parties continue with dancing, music, food, and drink to celebrate Scottish culture.
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FAQs from St. Andrew’s Day
What is the significance of St. Andrew’s Day?
Saint Andrew, one of Jesus’ apostles, is revered as the patron saint of Scotland. Thus, the Scots have revered Andrew for more than a thousand years.
Saint Andrew’s Day is a national holiday.
This is observed as the National Day of Scotland. The Scottish Parliament proclaimed this patron saint day a bank holiday in 2006; however, institutions are not obligated to close on that day.
What is a traditional St. Andrew’s Day meal?
Consider preparing neeps and tatties. While commonly accompanied by haggis, neeps and tatties are incorporated into a variety of Scottish dishes. Indeed, potatoes are ‘tatties’ and ‘neeps’ are turnips.
St. Andrew’s Day 2023 Activities
Create an original St. Andrew’s feast.
Congregate with companions and indulge in haggis, porridge, black pudding (okay, that one can be omitted), and whisky. In the process, generate some entertaining anecdotes regarding St. Andrew himself. Did you know that he also engaged in fishing activities?
Put on a kilt
Even though it is not a national holiday in the United States, in our hearts we are all Scots. St. Andrew’s Day is observed by donning a kilt and applying a traditional blue saltire (Scotland’s flag) face paint to one’s visage. That concludes the celebration.
Consider a visit to St. Andrews.
You are, if you are anything like us, prepared to purchase a one-way ticket to Scotland after discovering how enjoyable St. Andrew’s Day is. Scottish celebrations can be found throughout Europe from November 30 to December 3, but none surpass those in the town of St. Andrews due to its undulating landscapes, rich history, and enduring traditions.
ST. ANDREW’S DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | November 30 | Thursday |
| 2024 | November 30 | Saturday |
| 2025 | November 30 | Sunday |
| 2026 | November 30 | Monday |
| 2027 | November 30 | Tuesday |
