Saint Andrew

Saint Andrew History

The Observance of Saint Andrew is a national holiday in Scotland. It celebrates the country's patron saint, Saint Andrew. As one of the Twelve Apostles, Saint Andrew is not only significant to Scots but is also revered among Christians around the world. The Observance places great emphasis on Scottish culture, tradition, and heritage, with a wide range of events and festivities that often include music, dance, food, and community engagement.

Saint Andrew was born in the first century in a town called Bethsaida, which is currently part of Israel. He was a fisherman by trade and is said to have introduced his brother, Saint Peter, to Jesus. Andrew is believed to have been crucified on an X-shaped cross, symbolised by the white diagonal cross or saltire on the Scottish flag. In the United Kingdom, Saint Andrew not only plays an important role in Scotland but also features in other regions' histories and symbols. For instance, Saint Andrew's cross is part of the Union Jack, the national flag of the United Kingdom, representing a unified link between England, Scotland, and Wales.

In the UK, St. Andrew's Day is observed annually on the 30th of November. The day is marked by various events highlighting Scottish traditions, including ceilidhs (traditional music and dance gatherings), haggis tastings, and bagpipe performances. In recent years, regions across the UK have also organised events to honour Saint Andrew and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Scotland, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation among fellow Britons.

Saint Andrew Facts

• St Andrew is believed to have died on a diagonally-transverse cross which came to be known as St Andrew's Cross.
• St Andrew was crucified by Romans in Patras, Greece. Remnants of the cross are now in the St Andrew's Cathedral in Patras while his remains lie in Amalfi, Italy.
• St Andrew is also the patron saint of Romania, Greece, and Russia.
• St Andrew's flag is also the flag of Scotland. It is a diagonal white cross on a blue background.
• Of all the small nations of this earth, perhaps only the ancient Greeks surpass the Scots in their contribution to mankind. ― Winston S. Churchill

In the News and Trending in the UK for Saint Andrew

Saint Andrew Top Events and Things to Do

• Visit the Saint’s namesake town on the Fife coast of Scotland and explore St Andrews Cathedral. There is also a St Andrews Cathedral in Patras, Greece that you can enjoy.
• Light up the November evening at Edinburgh’s Street of Light. The Royal Mile will be lit up to mark the start of the Christmas period in Scotland’s capital.
• Read a book! Scotland has many produced many popular authors. Our suggestions include:
  1) The Bridge by Iain Banks
  2) Morvern Callar by Alan Warner
  3) The Hand That First Held Mine by Maggie O’Farrell
• Watch a Scottish cinematic masterpiece. Try one of these Scottish films:
  1) The 39 Steps
  2) Trainspotting
  3) The Wickerman
• Listen to some of Scotland’s greatest musical talents. Enjoy listening to these popular Scottish artists:
  1) Screamadelica by Primal Scream
  2) This Is The Story by The Proclaimers
  3) Solid Air by John Martyn