St George’s Day 2025: Why it is Celebrated Twice This Year

St George’s Day 2025 is officially here — England’s traditional day to honor its patron saint. Celebrated every April 23rd, it’s a time of parades, pageantry, and patriotism. But this year, there’s a twist. The Church of England has shifted the religious observance to April 28 due to its overlap with Easter Week — when saints’ days are liturgically paused.

Let’s explore what this means, where the celebrations are happening, and how the day blends history with modern cultural and political identity.

🗓️ Why Was the Date Changed in 2025?

This isn’t a cancellation — it’s a liturgical shift.

According to Church of England rules, if St George’s Day falls within Easter Week (which it does in 2025), the religious services are postponed. This year, the church will formally observe it on April 28, even though public festivities are taking place on April 23 as usual.

This move highlights the dual nature of St George’s Day — a civic celebration of English pride, and a religious commemoration rooted in Christian tradition.

🇬🇧 Celebrations Across England

Despite the date confusion, the spirit of celebration is very much alive.

🎉 London Takes the Lead

• Trafalgar Square Festival: The Mayor of London is hosting a free festival that mixes English tradition with modern flair. From Morris dancing to street food, it’s a full cultural mash-up — and yes, there's even a dragon.

• Leadenhall Market: This charming market embraces the day with Morris Men performances, English delicacies, and themed stalls.

• Guards' Chapel Concert: The Coldstream Guards Band offers a classical touch with a free concert dedicated to St George.

🏰 Regional Festivities Worth Noting

• Derby: Dragons, knights, and folklore — Derby’s family-friendly event is an ode to medieval England.

• Salisbury: Famous for its historic pageant, this city brings a 13th-century tradition to life on Sunday, April 27, in Guildhall Square.

🏛️ Political Symbolism This Year

St George's Day has also become a political talking point. On April 22, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hosted a Downing Street reception, underscoring Labour’s attempt to reclaim patriotism ahead of the May 1 local elections.

Starmer emphasized national unity and inclusion, aiming to strike a balance between pride in English heritage and progressive politics.

🧾 The Man Behind the Legend: Who Was St George?

Forget the fairytale — there’s a real man behind the myth.

St George was a Roman soldier born in Cappadocia (modern-day Turkey). He became a Christian martyr after refusing to renounce his faith. The famous dragon-slaying tale is symbolic, representing the triumph of good over evil — and has been embraced in England since the Middle Ages.

While he’s also the patron saint of many countries, including Georgia and Portugal, in England he represents bravery, resilience, and moral strength.

📅 Looking Forward

So, what should you do? Celebrate both days!

• April 23: Join the national events, enjoy the cultural displays, and embrace English heritage.

• April 28: Attend church services or take a quiet moment to reflect on the deeper spiritual significance.