On the occasion of St David’s Day, here are five things you really ought to know about the Welsh festival

*St David’s Day falls every year on March 1. This was the date that St David – the patron saint of Wales – died in 589.

* St David (or Dewi Sant as he is known in Welsh) was a Celtic monk, abbot and bishop, who helped spread Christianity among the pagan Celtic tribes of western Britain.

* Cawl – a Welsh stew containing lamb and leeks – is traditionally consumed on St. David’s Day. Another traditional treat to try on St David’s Day are Welsh cakes aka scones stuffed with spices and currents.

* St David’s Day is marked by many colourful parades – such as the one that takes place in the compact capital city of Cardiff. Spectators line the street to see giant figures of St David and the Red Dragon. The parade typically culminates in a rousing rendition of the National Anthem.

* The Welsh flag, a red dragon on a white and green background, is often seen on St David’s Day. Many people often pin a daffodil or a leek (both symbols of Wales) to their clothes.

Dydd Gwyl Dewi Hapus! Or Happy St David’s Day to all…