Happy St David's Day!

Mar 1 2008 icWales

Dydd Gwyl Dewi Dedwydd! Happy St David's Day to you from all of us at icWales!

Today's the day to show you're Welsh and wear your daffodil or leek with pride. And if you haven't done already, why not send a loved one a St David's Day e-card?

If you're in Cardiff today, you can join in the fun and soak up the patriotic atmosphere at the National St David’s Day Parade.

Events start with a service at Llandaff Cathedral at 11am, hosted by Lord Mayor Gill Bird. An opening ceremony outside the National Museum of Wales is scheduled for 12.45pm and the parade kicks off at 1.15pm, ending at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay.

If all this patriotism encourages you to get busy with your camera then the South Wales Echo would like to hear from you. They're asking you to send them your St David's Day pictures.

So, who was St David?
St David, otherwise known as Dewi Sant, is the patron saint of Wales and is celebrated on March 1, St David’s Day.

David was the son of Sandde, Prince of Powys, and Non, daughter of a Chieftain of Menevia. He is believed to have been born near the present cathedral town of St David’s in Pembrokeshire.

He became Abbot of St David's and died on March 1, 589, after founding a monastery at the site of the present cathedral.

David was known throughout his life as a devout, holy man and there were many miracles attributed to him. He is usually represented standing on a little hill, with a dove on his shoulder.

St David journeyed throughout the West of Britain, founding or restoring 12 monasteries. There is also a legend of David crossing the sea from Ireland in one night riding on the back of a sea-monster.

St David's Day events in Cardiff
11am to 3pm, St David’s Day market with stalls, history exhibition and performances from local groups, Communities First building, 69B Splott Road, Splott, Cardiff. Call Communities First on 029 2087 3898.

12.30pm to 3pm, Churchill Way Bandstand, free music and street entertainment.

3pm, Sophia Close, The St David’s Day Parade through the city centre.

9am to 5pm, Cardiff Market, stalls will be offering visitors free Welsh cakes, free daffodils and the chance to win a Welsh hamper.

6.30pm to 8.30pm, Wesley Community Hall, Nottingham Street, Canton, an evening of entertainment by Lansdowne Primary School. Tickets at £3 (£1 children) available at the door.

7.30pm, St David’s Hall, The BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales conducted by Grant Llewellyn will be joined by harpist Catrin Finch for a special celebration.

St David’s Day tour to take in national icons

View images from the St David's Day parade in Cardiff