Brightening Festival

Imbolc, or "The Brightening" is the halfway point between the winter solstice (Yule) and the spring equinox (Ostara). While the winter solstice marked the beginning of the sun's return, Brightening is the celebration of the ever-so-small hints of life as our days become lighter and longer.

Before the development of our modern world with our electricity, lightbulbs, and heating, families adjusted their lives according to the weather and lighting of the season. In mid-winter, families would quite literally hibernate. People went to bed early and woke up late to conserve firewood and candles. They used up food storage from the prior year's harvest. And, many families even brought their livestock into their homes - both for warmth and for the preservation of their animals.

Historically, the Celtic word "Imbolc" is thought to mean "first milk". Many herd animals are in the last moments of their pregnancy at this time of year, and, as a result, are beginning to produce milk. For humans reliant on the season's production of food for nourishment, this milk represents the first food of the year. This milk, then, is a promising symbol of hope for an abundant year.

Imbolc is also associated with Brigid, the Celtic Goddess of fire and fertility. The Goddess Brigid was absorbed and adapted by Christianity as St Brigid, making her a symbol of transformation and adaptability. She is associated with milk, fire, home, and babies. Traditionally, the Celts would celebrate mid-winter by making Brigid dolls and Brigid crosses. They would give gifts to their neighbors, feast, and light bonfires.

Event Details:

Please join us as we celebrate "The Brightening" of the season

Location:

We will be celebrating the Brightening at Jillian's house and would be so grateful if you would bless us with your presence.

What to bring:

Please bring a dish to share and if you feel particularly creative, make it a traditional winter specific dish. Imbolc foods include anything milk related, creams, cheeses, custard, and butter.

*Please respect the time and energy it takes to host these events. Do not register for this event unless you are committed to attending. Thank you for your consideration.*

What to expect:

- We will share food and laughter together.

- We will have a short time to reflect on the history of this festival and representative Goddess, as well as the significance of the brightening world in our own lives.

- We will share a time to reflect together on the sleepy winter-time, dreaming and planning our visions for the year, as we conspire to harvest them in the coming seasons.

- We will enjoy a fire together, as we embrace the cold evening with a cup of tea and conversation. If desired, we may include a drum circle or draw meaningful messages for one another.

*This is a substance-free event*

*This is an Atheopagan event. All faith backgrounds are welcome.*

You can join our Facebook group here: facebook.com/groups/paatheopagans

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Jillian's House, 210 E Garfield Ave, New Castle, United States