Imbolc is also known as Candlemas, and Oimealg by the Druids. It is derived from the Gaelic word "oimelc," which means "ewe's milk." Imbolc was the festival of the lactating sheep. This, for the Celts, was a time when the herd animals were giving birth to their first offspring of the year, and was also a time for blessing the seeds and consecrating agricultural tools. Imbolc is a festival of the Maiden aspect of the goddess, for this is her season to prepare for growth and renewal. It is a time to honor her as the Bride of the Sun King, the god- for soon they will unite in sacred marriage. Imbolc is celebrated on February 1 or 2.
First stirrings of Spring occur now, and for our ancient villagers, a busy time with lambing. Not only the births, but the protection of the lambs and their mothers from weather, and predators, bears and wolves, also carrion birds and foxes. The flocks were guarded night and day.
A hungry time, the winter stores would be just about exhausted, so any casualties in the flocks would become a welcome addition to the pot.
Also, if the ground was thawed enough, ploughing and planting would begin.
Decorations- white flowers, besoms, sunflowers, candles
Foods- sunflowers seeds, poppyseed cakes, breads, dairy products, peppers, onions, wine, and tea
Herbs- basil, violets, white flowers, blackberry, myrrh, angelica, cinnamon, bay, wisteria
Colors- white, pink, green, brown, red
First stirrings of Spring occur now, and for our ancient villagers, a busy time with lambing. Not only the births, but the protection of the lambs and their mothers from weather, and predators, bears and wolves, also carrion birds and foxes. The flocks were guarded night and day.
A hungry time, the winter stores would be just about exhausted, so any casualties in the flocks would become a welcome addition to the pot.
Also, if the ground was thawed enough, ploughing and planting would begin.
Decorations- white flowers, besoms, sunflowers, candles
Foods- sunflowers seeds, poppyseed cakes, breads, dairy products, peppers, onions, wine, and tea
Herbs- basil, violets, white flowers, blackberry, myrrh, angelica, cinnamon, bay, wisteria
Colors- white, pink, green, brown, red
