Great Ways to Celebrate St George's Day in England

Last year, according to the Telegraph a government agency survey revealed that less than one in five people mark St George's Day on April 23^rd. Because of this English Heritage published a St George's Day Guide containing recipes and traditional games based on the theme of George and the Dragon.

This year Britain seems even more determined than ever to celebrate its National Day to give it the recognition it deserves and many people are joining the campaign, wanting it to become a bank holiday. Over 39,000 fans have joined the Facebook Group "23^rd April 2010! This is OUR country, we WILL celebrate!" There is also a growing initiative among some Parishes of the Church of England to mark St George's Day by ringing church bells.

St George's flag (a red cross on a white background) the symbol of England is usually flown on April 23^rd and by tradition a red rose (England's national flower) is worn in the button hole. And whilst the Irish have St Patrick's Day and the Scots celebrate the poet Robbie Burns every year with a Burns supper, England now seems to be making a stand. The country wants to celebrate its national Patron Saint and people want to celebrate in style rather than allowing April 23^rd to be "just another day."

If you haven't anything planned, how might you commemorate St George's Day? Here are some ideas on ways to celebrate England's National Day:

St George's Day in the Classroom: Teachers and pupils might discuss the Legend of St George and make the flag of St George. Research into traditional English games and play some of these in the classroom or school yard. Entertain your school with a performance of George and the Dragon.

St George's Day in the Home: Invite friends for a barbecue with traditional English food or a whole pig roast. Throw a fancy dress party with a St George's Day theme.

St George's Day in the Workplace: Fly the English Flag outside your work premises. Take the day off work in support of St George's Day being made a bank holiday.

St George's Day in your Community: Your community might celebrate Saint George's day by planning a festival, medieval market or theatrical event with St George as the main theme. Arrange a fun-run with any funding made to go to a local charity. Organise a dragon-making workshop for local children. Hide a dragon and go on a dragon hunt instead of a treasure hunt!

Or you might join in with one of the many events that are being arranged around the country.

In Newcastle for instance a festival will be held at the Civic Centre on April 23^rd which will include a traditional market as well as performances and entertainment on some of the main streets of the city. Current and former members of the armed forces will also be honoured at a special service of thanksgiving.

In London, week-long celebrations including food festivals, musical concerts, parades and theatrical events have been arranged between 18^th April to 26^th April to commemorate St George's Day.

On Saturday 24^th April Birmingham City Council have arranged a day of live entertainment, Morris dancing and music along with an appearance from St George himself.

In Carlisle, Cumbria's Military Museum is holding a St George's Day Ball in 23^rd April while during the weekend of the 17^th/18^th April, there will be a St George Tournament and Festival in Morley Leeds with re-enactments of battles and falcon displays.

Research your local area and find out what events are being arranged to celebrate St George's Day. You could be surprised at how many festivities and celebrations have been arranged. Stgeorgesday.com has collected hundreds of events and parties from around the country commemorating St George's Day.

Sources
Telegraph
Norwhich anglican organisation