One Day: What is St. Swithin's Day? (folklore and meaning explained)

As Valentine's Day fast approaches, many will be wondering what to watch on the most romantic day of the year. Lucky for Netflix viewers, the streaming giant has hit it out of the park with its latest addition, One Day, starring the talented, Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall.

The Netflix limited series, One Day, based on the hugely popular 2009 novel by David Nicholls, tells the decades-spanning love story of Dex and Em, who, after graduating from university, reunite on the same day every year. The official synopsis, as per Netflix's Media Center, reads:

"One Day tells the story of Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew who, on 15th July 1988, the night of their graduation, speak for the very first time. The next morning, they go their separate ways but where will they be on this one ordinary day the next year, and the year after that, and every year that follows? Each episode finds Dex and Em, one year older, on this one particular date, as they grow and change, move together and apart, experience joy and heartbreak. One Day is a decades-spanning love story, based on the worldwide bestseller by David Nicholls."

- Netflix's Media Center

Released on February 8, 2024, One Day is already tugging at heartstrings. But for those eager to unravel the mystery behind St. Swithin's Day – a key element in the series – your curiosity is about to be satisfied! Join us as we reveal the folklore and meaning of the minor holiday below!

What is St. Swithin's Day?

For those who have dived into the series, you're already familiar with the significance of St. Swithin's Day, landing annually on July 15 -- the exact date Dex and Em reunite each year. But what's the story behind this curious day? While it might not scream romance at first glance, it's wrapped in a charming folklore about fate and destiny!

Traditionally, St. Swithin's Day carries a whimsical prediction: the weather forecast for the next 40 days. If rain graces the day, expect a 40-day shower; if fair, anticipate an extended dry spell. It may sound like an old wives' tale, but this belief has endured for centuries. Despite its longevity, weather experts don't take it seriously, and there's no scientific backing for this charmingly quaint forecast.

The day itself is named after St. Swithin, the bishop of Winchester from 852 to 862. Legend has it that he chose an unconventional burial spot, preferring to rest outside to expose his grave to the elements. However, a twist of fate occurred when his remains were later relocated indoors, supposedly triggering great storms and weather change, giving rise to the folklore!

All 14-episodes of One Day are now exclusively streaming on Netflix, so don't miss out on any of the fun!