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Imbolc Day

Embrace the coming of spring and honor the Celtic goddess Brigid on Imbolc - a celebration of renewal, growth, and light.

Monday

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFebruary 1

OBSERVED INIreland

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYOther Religion

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to welcome the beginning of spring with Imbolc on February 1! This ancient Celtic holiday is a celebration of the returning light and the end of winter. It has roots in Gaelic culture and was traditionally a time for purification, growth, and new beginnings. Many modern-day Pagans and Wiccans also honor this day as one of their eight annual Sabbats. From lighting candles to making offerings to nature, there are many ways to celebrate Imbolc and embrace the coming of spring. So let's get excited for this joyful and meaningful holiday!

TIMELINE

Imbolc Day Timeline

Origins of Imbolc

Imbolc was originally a Gaelic festival marking the beginning of spring, closely associated with the goddess Brigid and agricultural rites.

Christianization of Imbolc

With the spread of Christianity, Imbolc metamorphosed into Candlemas, the feast of the Purification of the Virgin, while retaining some pagan elements.

Vestiges of Imbolc Traditions

Into the 19th century, Imbolc was still observed in some parts of Ireland and Scotland with feasting, divination games, and a celebration of Brigid.

Imbolc in Modern Paganism

Imbolc was rescued from obscurity in the late 20th century as part of the neo-pagan revival and it became one of the eight sabbats in the Wheel of the Year.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Imbolc Day

Create a Brigid's Cross

Get crafty and make your own Brigid's Cross, a traditional symbol of Imbolc. This symbol represents the goddess Brigid and is believed to bring protection and good luck to the household.

PLANT

Plant Seeds

Imbolc is a celebration of the coming of spring and new life. Plant some seeds in your garden or in pots, and watch them grow throughout the season.

HOLD

Hold a Candlelight Ritual

Light candles in honor of the goddess Brigid and hold a ritual to welcome the return of the sun and the increasing light of spring. This can be done individually or with a group.

MAKE

Make Traditional Foods

Imbolc is a time to celebrate with food and drink. Cook some traditional dishes such as bannocks, colcannon, or lamb stew to honor the holiday.

Go on a Nature Walk

Take a walk in nature and observe the signs of spring, such as buds on trees or new growth. Use this time to connect with the earth and reflect on the changing of the seasons.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Imbolc Day

Enjoying traditional foods and activities

Like many holidays, Imbolc has its own set of traditional foods and activities. Making bonfires, lighting candles, and feasting on dairy products like butter and cheese are all common ways to celebrate this holiday. It's a great way to connect with nature and indulge in some delicious treats!

Celebrating new beginnings

Imbolc is a celebration of the first signs of spring and the return of longer days. It's a time to harness this energy and set intentions for growth and new beginnings in our own lives. This holiday reminds us that change and renewal are natural and necessary parts of life.

Honoring the goddess Brigid

Imbolc is also known as the Festival of Brigid, an ancient Celtic goddess associated with healing, fertility, and creativity. By honoring her during this holiday, we can tap into these energies and connect with our own inner strength and potential.

Related holidays

TUE

Feb 2026

Religion

Candlemas Day

Light up your day with the traditions and festivities of Candlemas Day, honoring the end of winter and the beginning of spring.

Beltane

Beltane marks the halfway point between spring and summer - a time of celebration, fertility, and new beginnings. Let's welcome the warmer days with joy!

Bealtaine Festival

Get ready to embrace the magic and tradition of Bealtaine Festival - a celebration of spring, creativity, and Irish culture!

Lughnasadh

Get ready to welcome the harvest season with joy and gratitude as we celebrate Lughnasadh, a traditional Gaelic festival that honors the god of light.

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