Imbolc

(pic.13[1])

Imbolc(pic.13) is a Celtic festival which takes place on February the 1st and February the 2nd. It represents the beginning of spring and the changing of the seasons. Although that many of the Imbolc traditions have died out during the past Millennium, it was revived them in the 20th century by neopagans and ever since has remained in their culture.[1]

Ancient Celts related the Imbolc rituals to women and girls of the village. It was most celebrated with a family at home rather than in a community. The most famous custom which has remained until now is the weaving of St Brides crosses(pic. 14) from rushes.

(pic. 14 St Bride cross[1])

People also visited holly wells on this day, walking around them and asking for health.[2]

Nowadays, it is reckoned as a superstition, nevertheless, St Brides crosses are used to bless houses, asking for healthy cattle and good crop.[2]

Another tradition is making a small straw or reed doll which is called the Brigid Doll. One of them you can see on picture 15. Young girls would carry them around from house to house, the people whose house would be visited would add decorations to the doll. The purpose of these rituals is to bring good fortune to each home.[1]

(pic. 15 Brigid Doll[1])

These rituals are partly common these days. We can notice the same straw dolls in many cultures. For instance, it is commonly seen in Ukrainian and Russian traditions, where they are used as talismans for fortune and wealth in houses.

Resources:

1. https://wiccaacademy.com/wiccan-holidays-imbolc/

2. https://www.truehighlands.com/the-story-of-imbolc-and-the-groundhog/