Saint Andrew's Day

Saint Andrew's Day History

St. Andrew's Day, is a celebration of Scotland's patron saint, Saint Andrew the Apostle. The day offers an opportunity for the Scottish community to recognize and appreciate their cultural heritage, traditional music, and cuisine. As an essential component of the patriotic calendar, the Observance of Saint Andrew serves to advance Scottish identity and liaise with Scottish expatriate communities across the globe.

Saint Andrew's connection to Scotland can be traced back to the 4th century when his relics were brought to the ancient Pictish settlement, forming a strong religious association between the saint and the region. His significance to the European Union finds its roots in the Early Middle Ages when the cross of St. Andrew, or the Saltire, became the emblem of Scotland. Today, the Saltire continues to represent Scotland as part of the flag of the United Kingdom, symbolizing unity among the member states of the European Union.

In the European Union, the Observance of Saint Andrew is celebrated by Scottish expatriates, as well as those who share an interest in Scottish culture. The day is marked with various events such as ceilidhs (traditional Scottish dances), live performances of the bagpipes, and indulgence in Scottish delicacies like haggis and whisky. The European Union does not have a designated public holiday for St. Andrew's Day; however, in Scotland, it is a bank holiday held annually on the 30th of November.

Saint Andrew's Day Facts

• St Andrew is believed to have died on a diagonally-transverse cross which came to be known as St Andrew's Cross.
• St Andrew was crucified by Romans in Patras, Greece. Remnants of the cross are now in the St Andrew's Cathedral in Patras while his remains lie in Amalfi, Italy.
• Saint Andrew is often represented by the symbol of a saltire cross or St. Andrew's cross, which is a diagonal cross resembling the letter X.
• According to Christian tradition, St. Andrew was crucified on an X-shaped cross in Greece after he refused to renounce his Christian faith.

In the News and Trending in the EU for Saint Andrew's Day

Saint Andrew's Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Visit the Saint’s namesake town on the Fife coast of Scotland and explore St Andrews Cathedral. There is also a St Andrews Cathedral in Patras, Greece that you can enjoy.
• Light up the November evening at Edinburgh’s Street of Light. The Royal Mile will be lit up to mark the start of the Christmas period in Scotland’s capital.
• Visit St Andrews Cathedral and explore the remaining structures and climb St Rule's Tower for stunning views of the town and surrounding coastline.
• Check out the University of St Andrews. As the third oldest university in the English-speaking world, it has several beautiful buildings and picturesque courtyards to explore.