How to Celebrate Saint Crispin's Day

Crispin was a nobly born Roman who, along with his brother Crispinius, became a missionary to Gaul. They took up the cobbler's trade so the faithful wouldn't have to support them - or, depending on the version you read - so they could give shoes to the poor. Crispin and Crispinius were martyred around 256, and over the years their stomping grounds became popular shrines. St. Crispin's Feast Day is October 25.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gloves
• Gloves
• Scarves
• Gloves
• Party Drinks
• Party Food
• Theater Tickets
• Saddles
• Henry V Videos
• Theater tickets

1. Read the story of Crispin and his brother. Like all stories of the saints, it mingles fact with fantasy and the horrific with the inspiring.

2. Throw a party for all your friends who come under Crispin's patronage: not only cobblers and shoemakers but also weavers, tanners and makers of gloves, lace and saddles.

3. Attend a performance of Shakespeare's "Henry V," or rent a video or audio edition. King Henry invokes Crispin and Crispinius on the eve of the Battle of Agincourt.

4. Buy yourself a new pair of shoes. Or, if you're an equestrian, treat yourself to that new saddle you've been wanting.

5. Buy some shoes, gloves and scarves and give them to the charity of your choice.

Tips & Warnings

• Even if you're not Catholic or particularly religious, Saint Crispin's Day is a good day to honor lives well lived, beliefs held dear and shoes well made.