St. George’s Day

History of St. George’s Day

St George's Day, celebrations, Abels Moving ServicesSt George’s Day was once a major feast in England on a par with Christmas from the early 15th century. However, this tradition waned by the end of the 18th century, although the popularity of St George’s Day has been increasing over recent years. In 2006 BBC Radio 3 ran a full programme of St George’s Day events and there have been calls and campaigns to make St George’s Day a public holiday.

Although Saint George is the Patron Saint of England, it is not known that St George was English and it is not certain that he ever visited England, although legend has it that he was born in Caludon Castle in Wyken, near Coventry. The best-known part of the legend is that St.George slayed a dragon, although this has never been substantiated.

St. George’s emblem, a red cross on a white background, is the flag of England, and part of the British flag. The emblem was adopted by Richard The Lion Heart and brought to England in the 12th century. The king’s soldiers wore it on their tunics to avoid confusion in battle.