Date
Saturday
Feb

February 1

Imbolc Day

Embrace the coming of spring and honor the Celtic goddess Brigid on Imbolc - a celebration of renewal, growth, and light.

Yearly Date
February 1
Type
Day
Category
Religious
Country
Ireland

Introduction

Get ready to welcome the beginning of spring with Imbolc on February 1! This ancient Celtic holiday is a celebration of the returning light and the end of winter. It has roots in Gaelic culture and was traditionally a time for purification, growth, and new beginnings. Many modern-day Pagans and Wiccans also honor this day as one of their eight annual Sabbats. From lighting candles to making offerings to nature, there are many ways to celebrate Imbolc and embrace the coming of spring. So let's get excited for this joyful and meaningful holiday!

Imbolc Day Timeline

Ancient Times
Origins of Imbolc
Imbolc was originally a Gaelic festival marking the beginning of spring, closely associated with the goddess Brigid and agricultural rites.
5th Century
Christianization of Imbolc
With the spread of Christianity, Imbolc metamorphosed into Candlemas, the feast of the Purification of the Virgin, while retaining some pagan elements.
19th Century
Vestiges of Imbolc Traditions
Into the 19th century, Imbolc was still observed in some parts of Ireland and Scotland with feasting, divination games, and a celebration of Brigid.
20th Century
Imbolc in Modern Paganism
Imbolc was rescued from obscurity in the late 20th century as part of the neo-pagan revival and it became one of the eight sabbats in the Wheel of the Year.

How to Celebrate Imbolc Day

1

Create a Brigid's Cross

Get crafty and make your own Brigid's Cross, a traditional symbol of Imbolc. This symbol represents the goddess Brigid and is believed to bring protection and good luck to the household.

2

Plant Seeds

Imbolc is a celebration of the coming of spring and new life. Plant some seeds in your garden or in pots, and watch them grow throughout the season.

3

Hold a Candlelight Ritual

Light candles in honor of the goddess Brigid and hold a ritual to welcome the return of the sun and the increasing light of spring. This can be done individually or with a group.

4

Make Traditional Foods

Imbolc is a time to celebrate with food and drink. Cook some traditional dishes such as bannocks, colcannon, or lamb stew to honor the holiday.

5

Go on a Nature Walk

Take a walk in nature and observe the signs of spring, such as buds on trees or new growth. Use this time to connect with the earth and reflect on the changing of the seasons.

Why We Love Imbolc Day

A

Celebrating new beginnings

Imbolc is a celebration of the first signs of spring and the return of longer days. It's a time to harness this energy and set intentions for growth and new beginnings in our own lives. This holiday reminds us that change and renewal are natural and necessary parts of life.

B

Honoring the goddess Brigid

Imbolc is also known as the Festival of Brigid, an ancient Celtic goddess associated with healing, fertility, and creativity. By honoring her during this holiday, we can tap into these energies and connect with our own inner strength and potential.

C

Enjoying traditional foods and activities

Like many holidays, Imbolc has its own set of traditional foods and activities. Making bonfires, lighting candles, and feasting on dairy products like butter and cheese are all common ways to celebrate this holiday. It's a great way to connect with nature and indulge in some delicious treats!

Imbolc Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jan 31
Tuesday
2024
Jan 31
Wednesday
2025
Jan 31
Friday
2026
Jan 31
Saturday
2027
Jan 31
Sunday