Europe

Section: Europe

Alban Eilir, Welsh bardic name for Spring Equinox

Alban Eilir, Welsh bardic name for Spring Equinox

The first day of spring, or the spring (Vernal) equinox was celebrated March 21. Alban Eiler, which means, Light of the Earth, was the day that night and day stood equal. Crops were typically sown at this time. Birds nest and lay their eggs and symbolize for us the egg which has been within the goddess growing since Midwinter. The eggs of birds are colored and eaten in celebration of the emergence of the Son from the womb of the goddess on this day. With the birth of the Son, our mother goddess is transformed back into the virgin goddess Boand or Sophia. She celebrates the birth of the Son with the father god, the Dagda or The All That Is. The fairies and Nature Spirits join in the celebration so food and milk offerings are left outside for them. This is a time of Balance, Sexual Awakening and Fertility – the planting of Spring flowers is an excellent sign of understanding.

March 21, 2000
Sheelahs Day

Sheelahs Day

Sheelah’s Day, also known as Sheelagh’s Day, (Ir. Lá ’le Síle) is an Irish cultural holiday celebrated on 18 March which coincides with St. Patrick’s Day. While the holiday is no longer widely celebrated in Ireland, there are still associated festivities celebrated throughout the Irish diaspora in Australia and Canada.

March 18, 2000
Happy St. Patricks Day !

Happy St. Patricks Day !

St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is one of Christianitys most widely known figures. Apostle of Ireland, born at Kilpatrick, near Dumbarton, in Scotland, in the year 387; died at Saul, Downpatrick, Ireland, 17 March, 493.

March 17, 2000
St. David's Day

St. David's Day

St. David’s Day is celebrated on March 1st each year, in honor of St. David, the patron saint of Wales.

March 1, 2000
Feast of goddess Brigit, also known as Imbolc, Candlemasm, Groundhogs Day, Celtic fertility day

Feast of goddess Brigit, also known as Imbolc, Candlemasm, Groundhogs Day, Celtic fertility day

Imbolc, also known as Candlemas and Groundhogs Day. Imbolc was one of the cornerstones of the Celtic calendar. For them the success of the new farming season was of great importance. It marks the middle of Winter and holds the promise of Spring.

February 1, 2000