Saint Andrew's Day

Summary

When? 30 November
Where? Scotland
How? Plenty of food, drink, music and dancing, with festivities often lasting long into the night.

History

On 30 November the Scottish patron, Saint Andrew, is celebrated in Scotland. St Andrew was, however, not Scottish - he was probably born in Israel - and he never came to Scotland.

The legend of St. Andrew is that King Angus - who was the king of Scotland in the 9th century - was preparing for battle against the English. St Andrew appeared to the king in a dream and promised him victory. On the day of the battle an X shape appeared in the sky. This white X on a blue background is the symbol of St Andrew. King Angus promised that he would make St Andrew the patron saint of Scotland if they won and they did. Therefore, St Andrew became the patron saint of Scotland and his symbol - the white X on a blue background - became the Scottish flag. Later this flag also became part of the Union Jack.

Saint Andrew the Apostle, or simply St Andrew, was Jesus Christ's first disciple. He preached the teachings of Jesus around the globe before being crucified in Greece on 30 November 60 AD.

St Andrew is commonly associated with Scotland: Andrew died by crucifixion on an X-shaped cross, which is now represented by the white cross of the Scottish flag. But the saint's significance stretches far beyond Scottish shores.

People from many places all over the world hold St Andrew in the highest regard because of his teachings and endeavours. He is the patron saint of 6 countries and several cities. And yet despite featuring prominently in the Bible, relatively little is known about him.

St Andrew's Day is celebrated in many different ways. Some people go to a special party called a ceilidh where they dance in a typically Scottish way. On that day Scottish people also eat traditional foods such as cullen skink - a fish soup - or lamb. Some regions organise festivals while others have torchlight processions. Usually the proceeds of these events go to charity in honour of St Andrew and his generosity.

St Andrew is not only celebrated in Scotland, but in countries all over the world.