Imbolc

/ ˈɪmbəʊlk, ˈɪmbəlk, ˈɪmməlk /

noun

1. an ancient Celtic festival associated with the goddess Brigit, held on Feb 1 or 2 to mark the beginning of spring. It is also celebrated by modern pagans

Word History and Origins

Origin of Imbolc¹

C15: from Old Irish oimelc ewe's milk

Example Sentences

“For example, Imbolc marks the end of winter, when resources were scarce,” Kubick said.

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What the Celts called Imbolc is also around when Christians celebrate Candlemas, timed to Joseph and Mary’s presentation of Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem.

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She was honored on the mid-winter holy day of Imbolc, still commemorated on Feb. 1, which also became St. Brigid’s Day.

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St. Brigid’s Day and Imbolc, a pagan holy day associated with the goddess Brigid and heralding the coming of spring, both fall on Feb. 1, although Ireland is observing the public holiday on the following Monday.

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Churches plan Masses in honor of the saint, while Wiccan and other pagan groups plan meditations and other ceremonies in honor of the goddess and in observance of Imbolc.

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