Your guide to St Brigid celebrations and events across the island of Ireland.
February 1 marks the Feast Day of Ireland's female patron saint, St Brigid (or Brigit), famous for her charity and is widely regarded for her feminine strength and leadership.
Brigid’s Feast Day marks the beginning of spring in Ireland. According to the Celtic calendar, February 1 was originally celebrated as a pagan festival called Imbolc, a time to look forward to brighter days, warmer weather, new growth on the land, and the birth of farm animals.
Last year, St Brigid's Day became Ireland's newest public holiday and across the island during the first week of February, there will be events, community gatherings, and parades celebrating Brigid's remarkable legacy.
Brigit: Dublin City Celebrating Women
Dublin will be celebrating the legacy of Brigit and amplifying the voices of all who embody Ireland's Celtic goddess from February 1-5.
Visitors will have the chance to join everything from walking tours to fairs, performances, and workshops spread across the city.
Highlights include the Brigit parade which will weave through the heart of Dublin City. An eclectic mix of walkers, roller skaters, Brigits on bikes, and more will take to the streets in a joyful tribute to the inspiring women who have come before us and those who will illuminate the future.
The parade will finish on O’Connell Street where spectators can experience a Brigit Rising Aerial Performance at the GPO.
Brigid of Faughart Festival, Co Louth
Brigid of Faughart Festival, Co Louth
St Brigid's birthplace is believed to be Co Louth in Ireland's Ancient East and this year marks the 1500th anniversary of her death.
The Brigid of Faghart Festival from January 31-February 5, in Dundalk, Co Louth, will be hosting a very special program of events including artist workshops, talks, theatre, procession, and community get-togethers.
Plus, the highly anticipated Northern Lights show will transcend Dundalk Town Centre into a spectacle of light, creating an unforgettable experience that will illuminate the Market Square in a celestial aura.
Féile na mBan, Co Donegal
The seaside town of Bundoran on the Wild Atlantic Way celebrates St. Brigid's weekend with Féile na mBan [Women Festival] from February 2-6, with fantastic performances in art and music, workshops, and talks.
Visit the "Handmade in Bundoran and Beyond" craft market and browse a fantastic collection of Irish-made crafts and gifts from some great local artists. Join author and folk writer Keith Corcoran as he dives into the captivating mysteries and legends of Donegal, and also enjoy a fun-filled day of St. Brigid's Cross Making, perfect for those curious about traditional Irish culture!
Brigid 1500, Co Kildare
Brigid 1500 Festival will celebrate with spectacular events across Co Kildare. Taking place from January 27-February 6, the program will focus on the values that St. Brigid championed and events will range from concerts and talks to art commissions and pilgrimages.
Here are just some of the events you can look forward to:
- Light shows will be unveiled around the county at prominent locations in Clane, Newbridge, and Athy.
- A candlelight pilgrimage and ritual will be held at St. Brigid's Well outside of Kildare town.
- "She Moved Through The Fair", an evening of song at St. Brigid’s Cathedral.
Artists confirmed to take part include Eleanor McEvoy, Moya Brennan of Clannad, Mary Coughlan, Una Healy, The Henry Girls, Lisa Lambe, and Nell Mescal, with many more to be announced.
Imbolc International Music Festival, Co Derry/Londonderry
As mentioned above, Imbolc is a traditional Celtic festival celebrating the start of spring and coincides with St. Brigid's Day.
The Imbolc International Music Festival in the beautiful city of Derry/Londonderry in Northern Ireland is taking place from January 28 - February 4. A treat to the senses as you enjoy a celebration of international and local folk, roots, and traditional Irish music through performances, sessions, and workshops.
Brigid’s Awakening Festival, Co Roscommon
In Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, the Brigid’s Awakening Festival will be taking place from January 28 -February 5.
In Strokestown Park, art from some of Roscommon’s finest artists will be on display along with the illumination of Strokestown Park House featuring pieces of art from local schools and a short display of shadow puppetry.
Ireland’s largest St. Brigid’s cross will also be unveiled by the bridge in Tarmonbarry followed by the Tarmonbarry Players’ performance of an original piece “Brigid’s Cloak”.
How will you Fill your Heart with Ireland? Whether you decide to wander through 5,000 years of history in Ireland’s Ancient East, discover Ireland’s breathtaking west coast along the Wild Atlantic Way, embrace a giant spirit in Northern Ireland, or enjoy the unspoiled majesty of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands – an experience of a lifetime awaits you.
This article is presented proudly in partnership with Tourism Ireland. To learn more about Tourism Ireland and get inspired for your next visit to Ireland, check out their website at www.ireland.com.
