2020-02-01 Sat

Known as Imbolc or Imbolg, Saint Brigid's Day is a Gaelic traditional festival of Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man marking the beginning of spring. It is held on 1 February, or about halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.

Saint Brigid of Kildare is Ireland's most important female saint. also is known as Brigid of Ireland and Mary of the Gaels. Brigid was the Celtic Goddess of poetry, healing, and fertility. Saint Brigid is reputed to have performed miracles and healed the sick. The legend of Brigid stretches back to pre-Christian mythology, when she - as the daughter of the chief of the gods, - was a goddess herself, associated with poets, healers, childbirth and inspiration.

Day possibly started as a pagan feast known as Imbolc, which dates back to the 10th century. The holiday was often focused not only on the saint herself but also on cattle and dairy (of which Brigid is the patron saint).

For locals and tourists, there are various ways to celebrate Saint Brigid's Day in Ireland, from preparing special foods and having an Irish beer to honoring animals or taking a trip to the spiritual site of Saint Brigid's Well Near Kildare Town.

The Vatican Post issued a special stamp worth 1,500 Vatican liras in the year 1991. The stamp shows Saint Brigid and Mary blessing her. The stamp was issued to celebrate the 6th centenary of the canonization of St. Bridget.

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