Imbolc, also called Saint Brigid’s Day, is a Gaelic traditional festival which marks the beginning of spring. The traditional Celtic festival marks the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Imbolc is celebrated on February 1 and symbolises the first stirrings of spring, renewal, and fertility. For Christians, it is the feast day of Saint Brigid, Ireland’s patroness saint. Imbolc is one of the four Gaelic seasonal festivals, along with: Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhain. Historically, the traditions of Imbolc or Saint Brigid’s Day were widely observed throughout Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. In this article, let’s know more about Imbolc 2025 date, history and the significance of the annual festival. Happy Imbolc Wishes: WhatsApp Stickers, Telegram Messages, Hike Images and GIF Greetings to Mark Saint Brigid’s Day.
Imbolc 2025 Date
Imbolc 2025 will be celebrated on Saturday, February 1.
Imbolc History
According to historical records, Imbolc is mentioned in early Irish literature. Some evidence suggests it was also an important date in ancient times. Records say that Imbolc was originally a pagan festival associated with the lambing season and the goddess Brigid while historians suggest that the saint and her feast day are Christianizations of these. In recent times, its traditions have included weaving Brigid’s crosses, hung over doors and windows to protect against fire, illness, and evil spirits.
People also made a doll of Brigid which was paraded around the community by girls, sometimes accompanied by ‘strawboys’. Brigid was said to visit one’s home on St Brigid’s Eve. To receive her blessings, people would make a bed for Brigid, leave her food and drink, and set items of clothing outside for her to bless.
Imbolc Significance
The annual occasion of Imbolc or Saint Brigid’s Day serves as an opportunity to honour Brigid, the Celtic goddess of fertility, poetry, healing, and smithcraft, who later became Saint Brigid of Kildare in the Christian tradition. Imbolc was linked to fire and light, symbolising warmth and the return of the sun. This occasion marks the transition from winter to spring. On this day, people make Brigid’s crosses from rushes or straws for protection and feasts are organised where families come together to have a joyous time.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 31, 2025 01:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
