As February approaches, the island of Ireland reaches a gentle turning point in the year. This is the time of Imbolc, an ancient festival that celebrates the return of light after winter, and St Brigid’s Day on 1 February. In 2026, the moment feels even more special as the Snow Moon, a full moon, rises on the evening of 1 February, lighting the sky as people come together to mark new beginnings.
Imbolc is about noticing small changes, brighter mornings, new life in nature, and the feeling that winter will not last forever. St Brigid, known as a saint of fire, healing and creativity, became closely linked to this time of year. Together, Imbolc and St Brigid’s Day remind us to slow down, take care of ourselves and others, and gently prepare for spring.
Across the north a number of events are happening to mark the time of year:
In Derry~Londonderry, the IMBOLC International Music Festival (1–7 February) brings warmth and energy to the city. Music fills theatres, cafés and pubs, with concerts, workshops and friendly late-night sessions. At places like Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, people of all ages come together to listen, learn and share music. These moments show how creativity and community can lift spirits and help people feel connected.
Further south, the Ring of Gullion Imbolc Festival (28 January–8 February) brings the celebration to South Armagh. Set among mountains and villages the festival includes making St Brigid’s Crosses, listening to stories, walking in nature and gathering around fires as evening falls. These simple activities help people feel calm and grounded, just as communities have done for generations.
In Belfast, Imbolc and St Brigid’s Day are marked through community events that focus on kindness and togetherness. On the evening of 1 February, St Brigid’s Parish will host one event as part of the 4 Corners Festival. Across the city, creative groups such as Women in Media Belfast also mark Imbolc in modern ways, celebrating creativity, friendship and fresh starts.
Ligoniel Improvement Association are holding the Imbolc Big Walk, a journey through the Belfast Hills to celebrate the Celtic festival on 1st Feb.
For those who prefer a quieter way to celebrate, a St Brigid-themed Imbolc retreat in County Down on 1 February offer gentle activities like baking bread, crafting, sharing food and taking time to reflect. These calm gatherings honour St Brigid as a healer and guardian of the hearth, reminding us that rest and kindness are important too.
This season also connects to the wider world. A few weeks after Imbolc, Chinese New Year begins with the Year of the Fire Horse, a time linked with energy, bravery and moving forward. Imbolc teaches us to light the flame slowly and carefully, while the Fire Horse reminds us to use that energy wisely as the year continues.
Together, Imbolc and St Brigid’s Day in 2026 invite us to pause and notice the light returning in the sky, in our communities and in ourselves. With the Snow Moon shining overhead, Brigid’s fire reminds us that even in winter, hope can be lit, shared and carried forward into spring.
