- This event has passed.
Imbolc
February 2 - February 3
Imbolc was originally a day to honor the Celtic goddess Brigid (Brigit), goddess of poetry, healing, and metal work. Imbolc or Oimelc refers ewes beginning to lactate and giving birth to spring lambs. Celebrated on February 2, Imbolc is the halfway mark between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox.
According to Gaelic folklore, Cailleach, the old woman of winter, intends gather firewood every Imbolc to have ready for a longer winter. She would brighten the sky while she gathered her wood. Naturally, people looked forward to a dreary, overcast day on Imbolc as it meant Cailleach was still fast asleep and winter would be over soon.
As Christianity took hold, this day became the Feast of St. Brigid and Candlemas. It is also celebrated in various forms by Neopagans, Celtic Reconstructionist, and Wiccans. It is celebrated on February 2 in the northern hemisphere and August 1 in the southern hemisphere. Wiccans celebrate Imbolc as one of four fire festivals.
Candles and fires are lit representing the return of the sun and longer days.
Brigid?s crosses and corn dollies, representing Brigid, are made.
It is also a time of purification. People clean out their houses.
The goddess is said to walk the earth on Imbolc Eve, so people left an article of clothing outside their front door for her to bless as she passed by. It was said to have healing powers once blessed.
Herbs and flowers associated with Imbolc: angelica, basil, bay, chamomile, cinnamon, red clover, crocus, dandelion, dill, frankincense, heather, myrrh, nettle, orris root, primrose, rosemary, rowan, saffron, and snowdrop.
Incense associated with Imbolc: rosemary , cinnamon, wisteria, frankincense, myrrh, basil, jasmine, camphor, and lotus.
Colors associated with Imbolc: white, orange, red, yellow, pink, and brown.
Gemstones associated with Imbolc: amethystm garnet, onyx, and turquoise.
Decorations associated with Imbolc: candles, Brigid’s cross, and corn dollies.
Foods associated with Imbolc: dairy products, onions, chives, spiced wine, and herbal tea.