"Imbolg or Imbolc, also sometimes called Óimelc, are the Goidelic names of the festival of the beginning of Spring. These names may be related to "ewes' milk" and/or "purification, cleansing, washing." "
--- from "Holidays Introduction," by Crommán mac Nessa,
http://groups.msn.com/CromansGrove/holidayintro.msnw

Imbolg, (pronounced "IM-bulk"), is the festival of the lactating sheep. Imbolg is celebrated either at the beginning of February or at the first local signs of spring, the traditional date is February first or second. For simplicity sake, we have set our timers for February first. It is derived from the Gaelic word "oimelc" which means "ewes milk". Herd animals have either given birth to the first offspring of the year or their wombs are swollen and the milk of life is flowing into their teats and udders. It is the time of Blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools. It marks the centre point of the dark half of the year. It is the festival of the Maiden, for from this day to March 21st; it is her season to prepare for growth and renewal. Brighid's snake emerges from the womb of the Earth Mother to test the weather, (the origin of Ground Hog Day).

• Symbols of Imbolg:

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• Herbs and flowers of Imbolg:

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• Foods of Imbolg:

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• Imbolg Activities:

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• Imbolg Customs:

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Page Updated on: Monday, 14 November, 2011