St. George's Day 2025 in Spain

St. George's Day in Spain is celebrated on April 23rd, honors Saint George, the patron saint of Aragon and Catalonia. The day is marked with book exchanges, cultural events, and, in Aragon, official ceremonies celebrating regional identity and autonomy.

St. George's Day: A Public Holiday?

St. George's Day is not a public holiday in Spain, though it is widely celebrated in Aragon and Catalonia. In Aragon, the day coincides with the Day of Aragon, which is a public holiday honoring the region's autonomy and patron saint. In Catalonia, it is a cultural celebration where people exchange books and roses, but businesses and schools remain open.

St. George's Day

St. George's Day, or Día de San Jorge, is celebrated on April 23rd in Aragon and Catalonia, honoring Saint George (San Jorge), the patron saint of both regions. His legend dates back to the Middle Ages, where he is said to have slain a dragon to save a princess. This story became a symbol of bravery and protection, making him an important figure in many European cultures.

In Aragon, Saint George became associated with the Battle of Alcoraz in 1096, where he was believed to have miraculously aided King Pedro I of Aragon in defeating the Moors. Because of this, he became the patron saint of the region. In Catalonia, his feast day evolved into a celebration of love and literature, inspired by the medieval tradition of chivalry. Over time, April 23rd also became World Book Day, further strengthening the cultural significance of St. George's Day in Spain.

St. George's Day Celebration in Spain

St. George's Day is celebrated differently in Aragon and Catalonia. In Aragon, it coincides with the Day of Aragon, a public holiday where official ceremonies take place to honor the region's history and autonomy. The regional government organizes flag-raising events, parades, and cultural performances. Towns and villages host traditional jota Aragonesa music and dance performances, while local markets display Aragonese crafts and gastronomy. People remember Saint George as a symbol of strength and heritage, reinforcing Aragonese identity.

In Catalonia, St. George's Day is widely known as the festival of books and roses. The tradition of giving a rose to a loved one and receiving a book in return comes from medieval customs of knights offering flowers to ladies. The streets of Barcelona and other cities are filled with bookstalls and flower vendors, creating a lively atmosphere. Writers hold book signings, and literary events take place throughout the region.

Beyond tradition, St. George's Day represents culture, history, and love for literature in Spain. It strengthens regional identity in Aragon and fosters a love for reading in Catalonia. The festival unites people through history and creativity, making April 23rd one of Spain's most cherished cultural celebrations.

St. George's Day Observances