Saint Wenceslas Day

Saint Wenceslas Day (Czech Statehood Day) History

Saint Wenceslas Day dedicated to the celebration and remembrance of Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Czech people who played a crucial role in the country's history as the Duke of Bohemia. The day is marked by various festive events, religious ceremonies, and cultural activities that serve to honour the saint's life and legacy, and foster a sense of national pride and unity.

The origins of Saint Wenceslas Day can be traced back to the 10th century when Wenceslas, the Duke of Bohemia, was murdered by his own brother in a political dispute. He was later canonized as a saint due to his efforts to spread Christianity in the region, and his contributions to the welfare and prosperity of the Czech people. As a revered figure not only in the Czech Republic but also in other parts of the European Union, Saint Wenceslas serves as a symbol of moral values and principles embodied by many Europeans, with his life story being seen as an inspiration for solidarity and cooperation among different nations in Europe.

In the European Union, Saint Wenceslas Day is observed on the 28th of September. On this day, people attend various religious services, processions, and cultural events to pay tribute to Saint Wenceslas. Some EU institutions, such as the European Parliament, acknowledge the significance of the day by expressing solidarity with the Czech people and promoting intercultural dialogue and cooperation among the member states.

Top facts about Saint Wenceslas Day

• Wenceslas was a Czech prince, a descendant of the first documented Bohemian prince, Borivoj I. Wenceslas. When his father Prince Vratislav I died, his mother ruled for several years until Wenceslas came of age.
• Wenceslas was killed by his brother who was upset that he was no longer heir to the throne since Wenceslas had had a son.
• Following his brother's murder, Boleslav (Wenceslas's Brother) assumed power and went on to murder all of Wenceslas' supporters.
• Good King Wenceslas looked out
  On the feast of Stephen
  When the snow lay round about
  Deep and crisp and even
  Brightly shone the moon that night
  Though the frost was cruel
  When a poor man came in sight
  Gath'ring winter fuel - Christmas Carol Good King Wenceslas - by John Mason Neale

In the News and Trending in the EU for Saint Wenceslas Day

Saint Wenceslas Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Participate in the Pilgrimage that takes place at Stara Boleslav, the site of St Wenceslas' murder. Every year this pilgrimage takes place with a holy mass and the transport of the saints remains to the site.
• Spread awareness on social media for the day by using hashtags #StWenceslasDay, #CzechStatehoodDay and #Wenceslas.
• Attend the Czech president's award ceremony in which he will distribute awards to deserving Czechs who have contributed to statehood. The ceremony takes place at the Prague Castle in the nation's capital.
• Visit the Statue of St. Wenceslas at the Prague Castle and the Vaclav Square in the Czech capital. It is common to place a wreath by his statue to commemorate him on this day
• Read a book about St Wenceslas in order to better understand his life and role in the country. Some of our suggestions are: A Story of Saint Wenceslaus and The Life and Martyrdom of Saint Wenceslas.