Celebrating St David’s Day with the Prince of Wales

A Heartfelt Message in Welsh

In a touching gesture, the Prince of Wales, William, delivered his first-ever message in Welsh to mark St David’s Day, the patron saint day of Wales. Recorded in a pre-recorded video shared on social media on March 1, William expressed his desire to celebrate Wales’ rich history, vibrant culture, and its incredible people. The video showcased his effort to connect with the Welsh community, as he sported a daffodil, one of Wales’ national emblems, on his lapel. While he has not yet spoken full sentences in Welsh publicly, this message marked a significant step in his journey to embrace the language and culture of Wales.

William’s message, translated into English, highlighted the beauty of Wales, from its breathtaking landscapes to its unique language. He concluded by wishing the people of Wales and those around the world a "Happy St David’s Day," emphasizing the magical qualities of the nation. This heartfelt gesture reflects William’s commitment to honoring the traditions and heritage of Wales as the Prince of Wales.

Learning the Welsh Language

William’s decision to learn Welsh is a testament to his dedication to his role as the Prince of Wales. While he has not undertaken formal lessons like his father, King Charles, who studied Welsh at Aberystwyth University in 1969, William has been using the Duolingo app to pick up conversational phrases. His efforts to learn the language are a nod to the importance of Welsh culture and the growing number of Welsh speakers in the country. The Welsh government reported over 590,000 Welsh speakers in 2022, an increase of more than 30,000 in the past 13 years.

William’s initiative mirrors the steps taken by his father, who learned Welsh before his investiture as Prince of Wales in 1969. King Charles’s tutor, Tedi Millward, a Welsh nationalist, not only taught him the language but also became a close friend. This legacy of language learning within the royal family underscores the value placed on connecting with the Welsh people and their heritage.

A Royal Visit to Pontypridd

Just three days before St David’s Day, William and his wife, Kate, the Princess of Wales, visited Pontypridd, where they immersed themselves in Welsh traditions. During their visit, they engaged with locals, including a market stall holder for whom they cooked Welsh cakes, a beloved Welsh delicacy. This hands-on approach to learning about Welsh culture demonstrates the couple’s enthusiasm for their roles as the Prince and Princess of Wales.

The visit to Pontypridd was a meaningful way to kick off the celebrations for St David’s Day. It highlighted the royal couple’s commitment to understanding and appreciating the traditions, food, and people of Wales. By participating in such activities, they fostered a sense of connection and joy among the community, reflecting their dedication to their roles.

The Significance of St David’s Day

St David’s Day is a moment of national pride for Wales, celebrating the country’s patron saint and its unique cultural identity. For the royal family, it is also an opportunity to strengthen their bond with the Welsh people. William’s message and the couple’s visit to Pontypridd are examples of their efforts to honor this special day and the rich heritage it represents.

By learning the Welsh language and engaging in cultural activities, William and Kate are following in the footsteps of King Charles, who has a long-standing connection with Wales. The royal family’s involvement in St David’s Day celebrations highlights the continued importance of this day and the enduring ties between the monarchy and the people of Wales.

A Royal Commitment to Wales

William’s message in Welsh and his efforts to learn the language are more than just symbolic gestures; they represent a deeper commitment to his role as the Prince of Wales. Since becoming the Prince of Wales in 2022, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, William has been actively engaging with the Welsh community. His actions demonstrate a determination to honor the country’s history, culture, and people, just as his father did before him.

As the number of Welsh speakers continues to grow, William’s efforts to learn the language are a powerful endorsement of Wales’ linguistic heritage. His message on St David’s Day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural identity, not just in Wales but around the world. By embracing the Welsh language and traditions, the Prince of Wales is setting an example for others to follow, fostering a sense of pride and unity among the Welsh people.

In conclusion, William’s heartfelt message in Welsh and his participation in St David’s Day celebrations reflect his dedication to his role and his appreciation for the rich tapestry of Welsh culture. Together with Kate, he is building a strong connection with the people of Wales, ensuring that the bonds between the royal family and the nation remain strong for generations to come.