Celebrate St. Andrew’s Day Edinburgh

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How to Celebrate St. Andrew’s Day in Edinburgh

01 February 2023

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St. Andrew’s Day in Edinburgh is a time to celebrate the rich history and culture of Scotland. This special day, which takes place on the 30^th of November each year, is a celebration of the life and legacy of Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland.

For over a thousand years, the people of Scotland have come together to celebrate this special day with a variety of traditions, food, music, and dance. But what is the history behind St. Andrew's Day and how do we celebrate it today? In this blog post, we will explore the origins of St. Andrew’s Day and the various ways that you can celebrate this special day. Whether you're of Scottish descent, visiting Edinburgh in November or simply want to learn more about this fascinating holiday, you'll find plenty of inspiration here.

The History of St Andrew’s Day

St. Andrew's Day has been celebrated in Scotland for over a thousand years, with the first recorded celebration taking place in the year 1320. The origins of St. Andrew's Day are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been established as a way to honour Saint Andrew, who is the patron saint of Scotland. According to legend, Saint Andrew was a fisherman and a disciple of Jesus, and he is said to have brought Christianity to Scotland in the 1st century AD.

The exact reason why Saint Andrew was chosen to be the patron saint of Scotland is not known for certain. However, there are several theories that have been put forward to explain the choice. One theory suggests that Saint Andrew was chosen as the patron saint of Scotland due to his association with the fishing industry, as fishing was an important part of the Scottish economy at the time.

Another theory suggests that in the 9th century, King Angus of Scotland was preparing for a battle against the English. According to legend, Saint Andrew appeared to King Angus in a dream, promising him victory. On the day of the battle, an X-shaped cross, which is the symbol of Saint Andrew, was said to have appeared in the sky. In gratitude for the victory, King Angus vowed that if they won, Saint Andrew would be made the patron saint of Scotland. This promise was fulfilled, and thus Saint Andrew became the patron saint of Scotland, leading to the modern celebrations of St. Andrew's Day

The Influence of St Andrew in Scottish Culture

Saint Andrew has had a significant influence on Scottish history and culture. Saint Andrew's influence can be seen in the Scottish flag, the Saltire. The flag features a white X-shaped cross on a blue background, which is said to represent the cross on which Saint Andrew was martyred.

In addition, St. Andrews, a city in Scotland, also bears his name, and it is home to the University of St. Andrews, the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world. The city is also home to the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral, which was once the most important religious site in Scotland.

How is St Andrew’s Day celebrated?

St. Andrew's Day, which takes place on November 30th each year, holds a significant place in the Scottish calendar, as it marks the beginning of Scotland's Winter Festival and is considered one of the most important dates after Burns Night and Hogmanay. The day is an official bank holiday and is a great occasion for celebrating Scottish culture, traditional cuisine, and dance.

On St. Andrew's Day, traditional Scottish dishes are often enjoyed as part of the celebrations. Some of the typical foods that are typically eaten on this day include Cullen skink, a thick fish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions; haggis, a savory pudding made from sheep organs, oats, and spices; neeps and tatties, a traditional Scottish dish consisting of mashed turnips and potatoes; and Cranachan, a dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, oats, and whisky. These dishes not only provide a delicious taste of Scottish cuisine but also showcase the rich culinary heritage of the country. Some people also like to add some whisky or traditional Scottish ale to the menu to make it more authentic, especially for St. Andrew's Day.

While Scotland is the main country to celebrate St. Andrew's Day, it is worth noting that St. Andrew is also the patron saint of several other countries, including Romania, Russia, Greece, and Ukraine among others. In fact, St. Andrew's Day was originally started in the United States by a group of Scottish immigrants who wanted to remember their Scottish roots. This shows that St. Andrew's Day is not only celebrated in Scotland but also in other countries around the world.

Where is St Andrew’s Day celebrated across Scotland?

St. Andrew's Day is celebrated in different towns and cities across Scotland, with each place having its own unique way of marking the occasion. In the historic city of St. Andrews, the festivities last an entire week, with pipe bands, an open-air ceilidh, and street parties. In the city of Glasgow, St. Andrew's Day is often celebrated with parades and fireworks, as well as traditional Scottish food, drink, and music. In Aberdeen, the locals celebrate with a special service at St. Machar's Cathedral, followed by a traditional Scottish dance and a Burns Supper. In the Scottish Borders, St. Andrew's Day is celebrated with a torchlit parade, traditional music, and traditional dances, including the famous Reels, Jigs and Strathspeys.

How is St Andrew’s Day celebrated in Edinburgh?

In Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, St. Andrew's Dayay is celebrated with storytelling events, street markets, and traditional music, providing an excellent start to Scotland's winter celebrations.

Beyond the celebrations, there are many cultural things to do around St. Andrew's Day in Edinburgh. One popular cultural attraction is the St Giles' Cathedral, which is also known as the "Mother Church of Presbyterianism". This historic church has been an important place of worship for over 900 years and is a great place to learn more about Scotland's religious heritage.

Another popular cultural attraction is the Royal Mile, which is a series of streets that connect Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyrood. The Royal Mile is home to many historical buildings, including the 16^th century Mercat Cross, which was used to make announcements and conduct public business. The Royal Mile is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Edinburgh and the Writer's Museum, which are both excellent places to learn more about the city's history and culture.

Another cultural attraction is the National Museum of Scotland, which showcases the history, culture, and natural history of Scotland, with a wide range of interactive exhibits and displays. The museum also has special exhibitions and events throughout the year, including St. Andrew's Day.

From historical sites and museums to traditional music and dance performances, you're sure to find something that interests you for St. Andrew's Day in Edinburgh.

Where to stay in Edinburgh for St Andrews Day

Fraser Suites Edinburgh is the perfect place to stay if you're visiting Edinburgh over St. Andrew's Day. The hotel is located in the heart of the city, making it easy to access all the events and activities that take place during the celebrations. You'll be able to walk to the St. Andrew's Day events in the city centre, including storytelling events, street markets, and traditional music performances that help kick off Scotland's winter celebrations.

Fraser Suites Edinburgh offers comfortable accommodation, with well-appointed suites that are perfect for families or groups of friends. The hotel also provides excellent facilities, including a fitness centre and lobby area, where you can relax between the St. Andrew's Day festivities.

Additionally, Fraser Suites Edinburgh offers a high standard of service, which will make your stay as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. The staff is friendly and helpful, providing you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Edinburgh.

All in all, Fraser Suites Edinburgh is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a convenient base from which to explore Edinburgh during St. Andrew's Day celebrations.

FAQs about St. Andrew's Day in Edinbutgh

What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

The best time to visit Edinburgh depends on your personal preferences, however the spring and autumn have milder weather, and the city is less crowded. Visiting around St Andrew's Day offers a unique experience with special events and celebrations, showcasing Scottish culture at its finest.

What is the best way to get around Edinburgh?

The best way to get around Edinburgh is by walking, as many attractions are close together. Alternatively, you can use the city's efficient bus network or take advantage of the tram system. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available, making travel easy during St Andrew's Day Edinburgh festivities.

What kind of food and drink can I expect to find in Edinburgh?

In Edinburgh, you can expect to find traditional Scottish cuisine such as haggis, neeps, and tatties, alongside local seafood and game dishes. During St Andrew's Day Edinburgh celebrations, you might also enjoy whisky tastings and festive treats that showcase Scotland's rich culinary heritage.

What kind of food and drink can I expect to find in Edinburgh?

St Andrew's Day celebrates Scotland's patron saint, St Andrew, who is revered for his role in spreading Christianity. This day, marked on 30^thNovember, is a time for cultural events, community gatherings, and reflection on Scottish heritage, especially vibrant in St Andrew's Day Edinburgh festivities.

Is St Andrew's Day a public holiday in Scotland?

Yes, St Andrew's Day is a public holiday in Scotland, celebrated on 30^thNovember. While many businesses may close or operate on reduced hours, communities across the country, particularly in St Andrew's Day Edinburgh, host events to honour Scotland's patron saint.