Brigid’s Day & Imbolc:
- Eternal Threads Ireland
- Feb 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 25

Honouring the Light in the Darkest Days:
As the wheel of the year turns and the deep winter begins to loosen its grip, we arrive at Imbolc, the ancient festival marking the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Celebrated on February 1st, Imbolc is a time of renewal, fertility, and the returning light. It is closely associated with Brigid, the beloved Celtic goddess who later became venerated as St. Brigid in Christian traditions.
The Origins of Imbolc:
Imbolc, meaning “in the belly,” reflects the stirrings of new life within the earth and in livestock. In ancient times, this festival was celebrated with fire and purification rituals, symbolising the light overcoming darkness and the nurturing power of Brigid.
Brigid: Goddess and Saint:
Brigid embodies the essence of Imbolc. As a Celtic goddess, she presides over poetry, healing, fertility, and smithcraft, representing inspiration and transformation. Her sacred flame was kept alive by priestesses in Kildare, a tradition that persisted even after she was syncretised into St. Brigid, one of Ireland’s most revered saints.
As St. Brigid, she became a protector of the poor, a healer, and a bringer of abundance. Her feast day on February 1st coincides with Imbolc, blending Pagan and Christian customs into a vibrant celebration of renewal.
How to Celebrate Imbolc & Brigid’s Day:
Whether you honour the goddess, the saint, or simply the seasonal shift, there are many ways to celebrate Imbolc:
Light a Candle: Fire is central to Brigid’s festival. Lighting candles or maintaining a hearth fire symbolises warmth, inspiration, and the growing power of the sun.
Make a Brigid’s Cross: Traditionally woven from rushes or straw, the Brigid’s Cross is a powerful protective symbol that many hang in homes for blessings throughout the year.
Leave Offerings: Dairy products, honey, and seeds are traditional offerings to Brigid, symbolising nourishment and fertility.
Spring Cleaning: A thorough house cleaning aligns with Imbolc’s themes of purification and renewal, preparing your space for the fresh energy of spring.
Water Blessings: Wells and sacred springs were traditionally visited in Brigid’s honour, with water used for blessings and healing.
Set Intentions: Imbolc is a time of inspiration and fresh beginnings, making it a perfect opportunity to set goals and manifest dreams.
The Promise of Spring:
Though winter still lingers, Imbolc reassures us that brighter days are on the horizon. It is a moment to honour resilience, creativity, and the sacred spark within us all. Whether through poetry, ritual, or simple reflection, celebrating Brigid’s Day connects us to the cycles of nature and the enduring power of light and life.