1st March marks the death of St. David, who died on that day in 589 AD. In the 18th century it was declared a national day of celebration in Wales.
The celebrations of St. David's Day are not as boisterous as those marking St. Patrick's Day in Ireland, although the occasion is celebrated by Welsh people all over the world.
There are various traditions associated with the day. Many people wear one or both of Wales' national emblems on the lapel: the leek, which was St David's personal symbol, and the daffodil, a traditional symbol of Wales which is in bloom during that time of year.
Schools often hold eisteddfodau - festivals of singing, dancing and reciting - often with the children wearing the traditional Welsh costume. The climax of the Eisteddfod is often a choir competition. Some schools allow their pupils a half-day holiday to mark the occasion.
There have been a number of campaigns to mark the occasion with a national holiday. A 2006 survey found that 87% of Welsh respondents wanted it to be a bank holiday.
The flag of St. David can often be seen flying on St. David's Day. Y Ddraig Goch - the red dragon - is more likely to be seen as well.
