15th July 2019 will see the first celebration of Hampshire Day. The day will provide an annual opportunity for people across the county to share in celebrating Hampshire’s rich history, traditions, and culture. The date has been chosen since it is the feast day of St Swithun – the patron saint of Winchester Cathedral.
At a special ceremony which will take place in the Castle Yard at Winchester Cathedral, the recently registered Hampshire county flag will be raised, to symbolise all that makes Hampshire such a unique and special place. The flag will be flown throughout the county. The place Hampshire holds in the hearts of its people will be celebrated.
As with all county days, the day is a celebration of the whole of the historic county. From Bournemouth to Hayling Island. From Ventnor to Tadley. From Ashley Heath to Grayshott. It’s a day for all to share in the joy of living in such a beautiful, diverse and dynamic county.
The flag raising ceremony will commence at 9.30am on Monday July 15 in Castle Yard, Castle Avenue, Winchester. Let’s all hope for fine weather, of course. According to tradition, if it rains on Saint Swithun’s Bridge in Winchester on Hampshire Day it will continue for forty days.