Imbolc, also known as Candlemas, Lupercus, or Candelaria, is celebrated on February 2nd and marks the end of the winter season and the birth of spring. It is traditionally celebrated as a fertility festival. In Ireland, Imbolc started out as a special day to honor the Great Mother Goddess Brigid. Corn is used is many of the rituals which are celebrated and grain dollies are made from wheat, corn or barley which has been kept from last year’s harvest. Candles are lit as a form of magick to draw warmth from the sun and to represent the increasing warmth. On this night it is believed that the spirits of the dead walk among the living.
The Sabbats in order: Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Litha, Lammas, Mabon.
