Known as the patron saint of England, St George’s Day has long been recognised as a national institution. However, unlike the vibrant celebrations seen in countries like Ireland on St Patrick’s Day, England’s commemoration of its patron saint’s day has been relatively subdued.

This reluctance to embrace St George’s Day stems from various factors, including concerns over cultural divisions and negative associations with the St George’s cross. However, there’s a compelling case to be made for England to celebrate St George’s Day with the same fervour as the Irish celebrate St Patrick’s Day, not only for the sake of national unity but also for economic benefits. It could bring, particularly to the pub trade and the wider economy.

Despite being one of the most multicultural countries globally, England remains divided in many ways. The St George’s cross, England’s flag, has unfortunately become associated with racism and bigotry in some quarters. Detracting from its symbolism as a national emblem. This divisive perception has contributed to a reluctance among some to openly celebrate St George’s Day, or even to recognise the St George’s Cross as a symbol of national identity. In an effort to appear ‘woke’, Nike fell foul to the national mood by changing the emblem’s colours on the England football kit, much to the annoyance of patriotic football fans across the country.

Survey:

Furthermore, recent surveys indicate a decline in national pride and a sense of pessimism about the country’s future. A YouGov poll revealed that a significant majority of the British public feel the UK is in decline, with diminishing pride in being British. In such times,  fostering a sense of national identity and pride becomes increasingly important for social cohesion and collective morale. One tangible way to bolster national pride and unity is by officially recognising and celebrating St George’s Day as a bank holiday. There’s plenty of support for this idea. As evidenced by a petition calling for St George’s Day to be designated a bank holiday, gathering nearly 70,000 signatures. In contrast, Ireland enjoys a bank holiday on St Patrick’s Day. Allowing for widespread celebrations in honour of their patron saint.

Significance of St George’s Day:

St George’s Day holds historical significance, commemorating the legendary soldier’s death in 303 AD. St George’s courage and commitment to his beliefs, for which he paid the ultimate sacrifice, resonates with many English people. Embracing St George’s Day could also provide a significant boost to the economy, particularly for the pub trade and hospitality sector. During St Patrick’s Day in 2024, a staggering 27 million pints were sold across the weekend in the UK. Demonstrating the economic potential of festive celebrations focussed around a national holiday.

By promoting St George’s Day as a day of festivities and cultural expression. Pubs, bars and social venues could capitalise on increased footfall and consumer spending, injecting vitality into local economies. While celebrations of St George’s Day have diminished over the centuries, there remains a resilient tradition of parades and public activities.

However, these efforts pale in comparison to the exuberant festivities witnessed during St Patrick’s Day. It’s time for England to reclaim St George’s Day as a vibrant celebration of its culture, history, and values. To achieve this, concerted efforts are needed to reframe the narrative surrounding St George’s Day, emphasising its inclusive and celebratory nature. Communities, businesses, and policymakers should work together to organise events, festivals, and promotions. That showcase England’s rich cultural heritage and foster a sense of belonging among its diverse population.

It’s time for England to raise the flag of St George high and celebrate its patron saint with the passion and enthusiasm befitting of a proud and diverse nation.