What is Imbolc and How to Celebrate
What is Imbolc/ Candlemas
Our Imbolc Celebration Box
Imbolc marks the beginning of spring. It is held around the 1st - 2nd February, at the half-way point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Imbolc, also called Imbolg, Saint Brigid's Day and Candlemas, is one of the four ancient Gaelic seasonal festivals, along with: Beltane, Lughnasadh (Lammas) and Samhain. The word Imbolc comes from the Old Irish ‘I mbolc’, meaning 'in the belly’, referring to pregnant ewes, common at this time of the year. Imbolc was originally a pagan festival associated with the goddess Brigid. Later on the festival got christianized as the feast day of Saint Brigid.
Easy Ways to Celebrate Imbolc
Make a straw Brigid's Cross or doll
Make candles
Start planning your garden and spring seeding
Have a cleansing bath
Spring clean your home
Visit a Well
Create a 'milk' bath soak
Host a feast with lots of dairy products (if vegan create a menu with seasonal vegetables)
Go for a walk and look out for the first signs of spring blossoming