Celtic Festivals

1.

Samhain-1st November

• Marked the start of the agricultural year and Celtic New Year
• Most important festival of the year.
• It was believed the dead returned to visit the land.
• The Celts made food offerings to bring about a good harvest in year ahead.
• They made bonfires of any trees that had fallen/died during the year.
• Rituals were performed beside Rivers and Wells.

How did Patrick change this?

This became the celebrating All Saints and All Souls.

2.

Imbolc- 1st February

• Beginning of Spring
• Lambing Season begins- ground is tilled for sowing.
• The Celts worshipped an important goddess called Brigantia who was linked to Fertility and Childbrith and this was a festival celebrating this Goddess. 

How did Patrick change this?

This became the feast for St Brigid.

3.

Bealtaine- 1st May

• Cattle returned to Pasture
• Crops were beginning to Grow
• People turned to their Gods for protection against danger.

How did Patrick Change this?

The land was sprinkled with Holy Water blessed at Easter.

4.

Lughnasa-1st August

• Celebrating food and life

How did this change after Patrick?

Became the time for the Pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick.