As a proud Welsh brand we think you would be hard-pressed to find a holiday more charming than St. Dwynwen’s Day. As the Welsh equivalent to Valentine’s Day, St. Dwynwen’s is all about spreading heartfelt gestures and lovers’ well-wishes.
St. Dwynwen’s Day is a unique and cherished celebration of love and romance. This special day, observed on January 25th each year, holds a rich history and plays a significant role in the cultural tapestry of Wales.
Who is St. Dwynwen’s
St. Dwynwen, the patron saint of lovers in Welsh tradition, lived during the 5th century. The daughter of King Brychan Brycheiniog, Dwynwen fell deeply in love with a young man named Maelon. However, her father had already arranged her marriage to another nobleman. Heartbroken, Dwynwen prayed to be released from her love for Maelon.
Legend has it that an angel appeared to Dwynwen and granted her three wishes.
- Her first wish was for Maelon to be freed from his love for her.
- The second wish was for God to meet the desires of true lovers.
- For her third wish, Dwynwen asked to never marry, instead dedicating her life to God.
In gratitude, she founded a convent on Llanddwyn Island off the coast of Anglesey, where she spent the remainder of her days.
Why is this saint of lovers so important to the people of Wales?
St. Dwynwen’s Day is not just a Welsh equivalent of Valentine’s Day; it’s a celebration that holds deep cultural significance. As a figure of love and devotion, St. Dwynwen is revered by the Welsh people, and her day provides an opportunity to honour and celebrate the romantic bonds that exist between couples.
Join in the celebrations
On St. Dwynwen’s Day, it is customary for couples to exchange cards and gifts, much like Valentine’s Day. However, the Welsh also have their unique traditions. One such tradition is to visit Llanddwyn Island, where the ruins of Dwynwen’s church can still be found. Couples make pilgrimages to the island to seek the saint’s blessing for their relationships.
Welsh Love Spoons, intricately carved wooden spoons, are another traditional gift exchanged on this day. Each symbol on the spoon carries a specific meaning, representing wishes for the couple’s future together.
St. Dwynwen’s Day is more than just a celebration of romantic love; it is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Wales. The story of St. Dwynwen serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love, resilience in the face of heartbreak, and the importance of dedicating oneself to the greater good.
This celebration is not just honour a beloved saint but also reinforce the values of love, compassion, and commitment that have been woven into the fabric of Welsh culture through the centuries.
This maybe a Welsh holiday but it offers romantics a reason to give special attention and gifts to spouses and partners. Not only that it is a reminder that Valentines days is just around the corner!