Imbolc facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Imbolc |
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| Also called | Lá Fhéile Bríde (Irish) Là Fhèill Brìghde (Scottish Gaelic) Laa'l Breeshey (Manx Gaelic) |
| Observed by | Historically: Gaels Today: Irish people, Scottish people, Manx people, Celtic neopagans and Wiccans |
| Type | Cultural, Pagan (Celtic polytheism, Celtic Neopaganism, Wicca) |
| Significance | beginning of spring |
| Celebrations | feasting, making Brigid's crosses and Brídeógs, visiting holy wells, divination, spring cleaning |
| Date | 1 February (or 1 August for Neopagans in the S. Hemisphere) |
| Related to | Gŵyl Fair y Canhwyllau, Candlemas, Groundhog Day |
Imbolc is a special festival that celebrates the start of spring. It is linked to Brigid, who was first a Celtic goddess. Later, she became a famous Christian saint.
This festival happens on February 1st. Its original names, "Imbolc" or "Oimelc," come from Gaelic words. These words mean "ewe's milk." Ewes are female sheep. This name refers to the milk that flows when baby lambs are born in the spring. Gaelic languages are spoken in places like Ireland and Scotland.
Contents
What is Imbolc?
Imbolc has always been a time to celebrate that winter will soon be over. In Ireland, you might even see the first flowers pushing through the snow around this time. It is a sign that warmer days are coming.
Brigid: Goddess and Saint
Brigid is a very important figure in both Pagan and Christian traditions. She is seen as a strong female figure. People believe she brings light, new ideas (inspiration), and healing to the world.
How Imbolc is Celebrated
Over time, the Roman Catholic Church changed this festival. It became Candlemas Day on February 2nd. This day is now linked to the Virgin Mary.
On Candlemas Day, people might have special events or processions. This means walking together in the dark, carrying candles for light. They might also sing songs to Brigid or say poems and prayers to her. Other celebrations include feasting, making special crosses called Brigid's crosses, and visiting holy wells. Many people also use this time for spring cleaning their homes.
Images for kids
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People making Brigid's crosses at St Brigid's Well near Liscannor
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Painting of Saint Brigid with a bowl of fire, a spindle, and a cow in St. Patrick's Chapel, Glastonbury.
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A Brigid's cross
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Snowdrops in the snow
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Imbolc Festival in Marsden, West Yorkshire, 2007
See also
In Spanish: Imbolc para niños
