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

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.

From Seattle Times

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

From Seattle Times

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.

From Seattle Times

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.

From Seattle Times

"Some traditions of Imbolc held it as a day to divine when the coming of spring would be, considering a sunny Imbolc to indicate a late start to the spring season; this was very likely an influence on the Candlemas/Badger Day traditions that came later."

From Salon