🌿Celebrating St David's Day Week: A guide to Welsh Heritage & Local Find🌿s

This weekend we will be celebrating St. David's Day / Dydd Gwyl Dewi Sant.  It is celebrated on March 1st, is a time to honor Wales' patron saint and immerse ourselves in the rich history and culture of this beautiful country. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Betws-Y-Coed, there’s no better way to embrace the spirit of Wales than by celebrating this special day with some unique Welsh traditions, delightful gifts, and a range of exciting activities.

🌻The Meaning of St David's Day 🌻

St David, or Dewi Sant as he is known in Welsh, is one of the most significant figures in Welsh history. Born in the 6th century, he was a Christian monk and missionary who founded monastic communities across Wales, spreading Christianity and Welsh culture. His teachings inspired a spiritual revival in Wales, and today, we celebrate his legacy on St David’s Day.

It’s a day to come together as a nation to celebrate our Welsh heritage, language, and identity❤️

🌻Welsh Traditions and Celebrations!🌻

Across Wales, St David’s Day is celebrated with vibrant traditions. Here’s a look at some of the key customs:

• 💐 Daffodils & Leeks: The national symbols of Wales, worn proudly on this day. People pin a daffodil to their coats or wear a leek to show their Welsh pride. 🌱

• 🍽️ Welsh Food: Indulge in traditional Welsh delights like cawl (hearty soup), Welsh cakes, and bara brith (fruit bread). These mouth-watering dishes are steeped in Welsh history. 🧁

• 🎶 Welsh Music & Dance: Traditional Welsh music fills the air, with choirs singing iconic Welsh hymns and local folk dances keeping the spirit alive. 🎤💃

• 🎭 Eisteddfodau: Though most popular in the summer, smaller cultural festivals often take place on St David’s Day, featuring Welsh poetry, music, and literature. 📚🎻

The Best Welsh-Made Products at Anna Davies 

If you are in the local area or shopping online and want to celebrate St David's Day with a token of something Welsh then look no further. We are extremely proud to offer a fantastic rang of products that capture the spirt of Wales. Here are some of the best Welsh-made gifts we would recommend:

Tweedmill Textiles - Welsh Wool Blankets, Throws and Furniture

• Tweedmill Blankets & Throws - Beautifully crafted in Wales, these high-quality wool throws are perfect for cozying up on chilly evenings

• Traditional Welsh Tapestry Products – Rich in heritage and design, these iconic patterns make for stunning cushions, bags, and home accessories.

Welsh Slate Gifts 

• Coasters & Placemats – Crafted from authentic Welsh slate, these elegant pieces bring a touch of Wales into any home.

• Personalized Welsh Slate Signs – A thoughtful, locally made gift for those who appreciate handcrafted decor.

Authentic Welsh Foods & Drinks

• Bara Brith & Welsh Cakes – No St. David’s Day is complete without these traditional bakes, available at Anna Davies.🥮

• Penderyn Whisky – Celebrate Wales’ national day with a sip of this award-winning single malt whisky.🥃

• Aber Falls Gin – Distilled in North Wales, Aber Falls Gin is crafted using the finest botanicals and pure Welsh water, creating a smooth and refreshing spirit that embodies the essence of Wales.

• Welsh Preserves & Honey – Locally sourced and packed with flavor, these make a delicious addition.🍯

Handmade Welsh Crafts & Jewellery

• Carrie Elspeth Jewellery – Handcrafted in Wales, Carrie Elspeth pieces feature beautiful, unique designs with vibrant beads and intricate craftsmanship.💍

• Clogau Jewellery – Inspired by Welsh heritage, Clogau incorporates rare Welsh gold into stunning, timeless jewellery pieces that make for meaningful gifts.

• Handmade Pottery – Unique, hand-thrown ceramics that make for a perfect keepsake or gift from Glosters Ceramics.🏺

Celebrating St. David's Day in the local area🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

If you’re in Betws-y-Coed for St. David’s Day, be sure to soak up the festive atmosphere. Many local cafes and restaurants serve traditional Welsh dishes, and you may even catch a Welsh choir performance or cultural event.

Just a short drive away in Trefriw, the Trefriw Film Club are screening the National Theatre production of Nye at 7.30pm for £12.00. Alternatively, if you fancy a trip to see us in Conwy, you can join in the celebration at Conwy Castle between 11.00am-1.00pm. 

Before you leave, stop by Anna Davies to pick up a piece of Wales to take home—whether it’s a cozy wool blanket, a slate keepsake, or a taste of Welsh tradition.

Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus! (Happy St. David’s Day!)🌻