It’s a big weekend on the Celtic calendar as we celebrate the green shoots of Imbolc, a time when new life begins to spring forth, the days begin to properly lengthen and every second person you meet talks about ‘the grand old stretch’.
Traditionally Brigid’s Day occurs on February 1st, which as luck would have it is also Imbolc, the first day of Spring, bringing with it the return of the light, and the ancient Celtic festival of the goddess.
This year, for the first time ever, following a three year campaign coordinated by the tenacious folk at Herstory, we finally have an Irish Bank Holiday dedicated to a woman. From here on in the first Monday in February will be dedicated to Brigid, regarded as both matron Saint and Celtic Goddess, in what is fast evolving into a celebration ultimately of all mná.
Over at L Mulligan, they have been busy working on a very special long table event featuring an incredible Imbolc menu inspired both by the foods associated with Brigid, as well as by the fantastic Irish female producers with whom they work.
As they prepare to host this very special celebratory gathering, the crew there have been reminding us that in addition to boasting strong connections with bees, herbs and healing, the Kildare woman is also associated with rains, brewing and dairy, while also held in high esteem as the patron of flame, hearth and forge.
They posted impressive images of some of the dishes involved on their Insta and we have to say that they look absolutely incredible! Smoked Trout, Whipped Blossom Butter, and Steamed Ginger Pudding, with flights of beer and a gin tasting in the mix too – a veritable feast fit for a goddess.
The event takes place next Sunday, February 5th, with €5 from each ticket sold going to support the work of Women’s Aid. Tickets including welcome drink and gin tasting cost €39.50, are available here.
