St George's Day

Did you know that the 23rd April is St George's Day?
Saint George's Day, also known as the Feast of Saint George, is the feast day of Saint George, celebrated by various Christian Churches and by the several nations, kingdoms, countries and cities of which Saint George is the patron saint including England, and regions of Portugal and Spain.
A few facts:-

• St George is the patron saint of England and the day was named after him in 1222.
• He was born in Turkey and lived during the third century AD. He was a Christian and became a Roman soldier when he was 17.
• He was known for his bravery and he protested against the persecution of Christians by the Romans. Even though he was imprisoned, he stayed true to his faith.
• King Edward III made him the patron saint of England after he defeated the French at the Battle of Crécy in 1350. 
• A red cross on a white background was the emblem for St George and we now use it as the English flag.
• St. George’s flag was adopted by Richard The Lion Heart and brought to England in the 12th century. Soldiers wore it on their tunics in battle.
• The legend of ‘Saint George and the Dragon’ tells of how he killed a dragon and saved a princess. 
• There are many St. George’s Day parades all around England, which often include Morris dancers and marching bands. Some parades also include re-enactments of the dragon legend.
• St. George is also the Patron Saint of Scouting.
  Usually on the Sunday closest to April 23rd, the Scouts and the Guides go on parade to their nearest church.

Why not find out some more facts for yourself and try some of your own St George's day activities! 
​You could:-

• Make a shield
• Draw or make a dragon
• Make a St George's Day flag
• Have your own parade in your house or garden
• Write a fact file
• Make a poster

Have a look on some of these website for ideas.
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/topics/festivals-and-cultural-celebrations/st-georges-day

https://www.britain-magazine.com/features/10-facts-about-st-georges-day-2/
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https://www.teachingideas.co.uk/history/st.-georges-day

https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/17816642

​https://www.activityvillage.co.uk/st-georges-day

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