Cal U. to celebrate St. George’s Day
A 10-foot-long dragon sculpted by art students will make an appearance when California University of Pennsylvania marks Diada de Sant Jordi, or St. George’s Day, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 5 at Manderino Library.
The holiday honors Sant Jordi, or St. George. According to Spanish lore, the medieval knight slew a dragon that was terrorizing a village and rescued a princess who was about to be sacrificed to the beast. As the dragon fell, its blood turned into a rose, which George presented to the princess.
UNESCO has declared the holiday the International Day of the Book. Since it traditionally is celebrated near the April dates when authors William Shakespeare and Miguel Cervantes died, friends and colleagues exchange books to mark the occasion.
The event will include a display of students’ artwork; free Spanish and Hispanic food; a book sale featuring works by local authors and Cal U. faculty; a demonstration of weaving and other fiber arts; free medieval dance lessons; and a demonstration by the Cal U. fencing club.