Dragons, Courage and Scouts: Why St George's Day Matters

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St George’s Day and Scouting

Many people know Saint George as the patron saint of England. He is also the patron saint of several other countries, including Georgia, Portugal, Ethiopia and Lithuania. What many people don’t realise is that St George is also the patron saint of Scouts.

The founder of the Scout movement, Robert Baden-Powell, chose St George because he believed the qualities shown in the legend of the knight and the dragon reflected exactly what it means to be a Scout.

Baden-Powell described St George as someone who faced danger bravely and directly, no matter how frightening it appeared. Rather than avoiding difficulty, he tackled it with courage and determination. Baden-Powell believed this was the spirit every Scout should have: facing challenges boldly, using their skills and character to overcome them.

Why St George’s Day Matters to Scouts

St George’s Day is celebrated on 23 April each year. Across the Scout movement, this is a special time when Scouts pause to reflect on the Scout Promise and Scout Law.

Of course, Scouts aim to live by these principles every day. But St George’s Day provides a moment to stop, think about what they mean, and recommit to them together.

The Ealing and Hanwell Scouts St George’s Day Parade

Our Scout Group, 1st Ealing North, is part of the Ealing and Hanwell Scout District. The district brings together Scout Groups from across the local area. Above the district is the county (Greater London Middlesex West Scouts), and then the national organisation, The Scout Association.

Each year, the district holds a St George’s Day Parade, usually on a Saturday close to 23 April.

Scouts from across the district gather together in either Walpole Park or Elthorne Park, where there is enough space for everyone. The event begins with a parade of all the groups, marching with their flags – often accompanied by a marching band.

After the parade, everyone comes together for a celebration of the year in Scouting. This may include:

  • Recognition of major achievements such as Chief Scout’s Awards
  • Long service awards for volunteers
  • Stories from adventurous activities or international trips
  • The occasional Scout song!

A Celebration of the Whole Scouting Community

Although it is called St George’s Day, the event itself is non-religious. Like all Scouting activities, the aim is to be welcoming, inclusive and accessible to everyone.

It is also a public event, giving the community a chance to see the Scout movement in action.
For young people, it is particularly inspiring. They see Scouts of all ages together: Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers, each with their own coloured neckers but wearing the same uniform. Younger members get a glimpse of the adventures that lie ahead, while older Scouts can reflect on how far they have come.

Looking smart is part of the occasion, so full uniform is worn, with group flags proudly on display.

Renewing the Scout Promise

One of the most important moments of the day is when everyone—young people and leaders alike—renews their Scout Promise.

Standing together with hundreds of other Scouts is a powerful reminder of what Scouting is all about: friendship, adventure, service, and doing our best.
St George’s Day is a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate being part of a worldwide movement built on shared values.

That is why it remains one of the most important and inspiring days in the Scouting calendar.