Imbolc: Kindling the Fires

For many of us, the time between the end of the holiday season and the beginning of spring is a drought, a time of cold, slog, and endurance. Neopagans and Wiccans, however, celebrate one of the four Gaelic Fire Festivals on or around February 1^st.

Above: Ice at sunrise

Imbolc marks the approximate midpoint between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox, and was celebrated in Ireland and Scotland in ancient times. 

This festival heralds the beginning of spring, already visible in nature as the rising of sap in trees, the courtship of birds (it does, after all, fall closest to our secular holiday of Valentine’s Day), and the pregnancy of ewes. It is also a feast for the Irish goddess Brigid, later Christianized as St. Brigid. She is the Triple Goddess in her maiden aspect, governing home and hearth (the sacred flame); crafts and husbandry; and poetry and inspiration.

Above: Fat Robin, watercolor and ink

Modern neopagans often focus on Brigid’s role as the kindler of inspiration and creativity. Ceremonies focus on blessing home and hearth, and lighting the light of Spirit to shine and illuminate the coming year.

So as snow falls and slicks the streets yet again, remember to welcome in the light of pure joy and celebrate this holiday, the quickening of spring!

If you have a specific wish for the year ahead, my magic amulets can be found here! Or contact me for a custom creation!