St. Brigid's Day is celebrated every year on February 1, and as 2025 marks the year of renewed interest due to the introduction of the public holiday, communities across Ireland are taking the opportunity to honor this beloved saint. This year, events span the length of the country, from traditional rituals to modern festivals, underscoring St. Brigid’s lasting legacy and societal contributions.
Kildare is at the helm of the celebrations, hosting the Spirit of Brigid festival, which launched last year to coincide with the inaugural bank holiday honoring this iconic saint. "Brigid is such a trailblazer; she really was a woman ahead of her time," said Paula O'Brien, co-organiser of the festival. According to reports, the event attracted over 80,000 visitors last year, and this year they anticipate even more, as groups arrive from the UK, Canada, the US, and across Europe, eager to join the festivities.
The dynamic Kildare festival features concerts, parades, exhibitions, and workshops, celebrating not just the saint’s religious significance but her messages of equality, peace, and social justice. The values embodied by St. Brigid, who founded one of the most powerful abbeys of her time, feel remarkably relevant today, as echoed by O'Brien, who emphasized the festival's dual focus on heritage and community spirit.
Further highlighting the day, Dublin will also host the Brigit: Dublin City Celebrates Women festival, returning for its fourth edition. Over 100 thematic events will take place, focusing on women's contributions to Irish culture and society. This year’s parade will be vibrant, featuring walkers, roller skaters, and dancers, all celebrating the spirit and legacy of Brigid.
Waterford is witnessing its own revival, with traditional customs related to St. Brigid being embraced once again. Chrissy Knight O'Connor from Waterford County Museum explained to local news outlets about customs like leaving garments outside for blessings on St. Brigid's Eve. The Kilrossanty area exemplifies this growing devotion, with local institutions dedicated to her memory.
Meanwhile, Bundoran is also alive with the Féile na mBan festival, dedicated entirely to celebrating women's roles, showcasing art, poetry, and craft workshops related to Brigid and her legacy. Events like the craft market and open mic nights bring communities together to honor not just Brigid but women across history, reflecting on their contributions.
One common activity across many regions is the making of St. Brigid's crosses from rushes, which symbolizes her protection and blessings. Workshop leader Sean Lipfird has dedicated his weeks to crafting over 130 crosses to distribute within his community, stating, "Some of those will be for friends, but the bulk - say over 100 - will be going to the parish for distribution." Such activities offer both educational engagement and community participation.
Celebrations are punctuated with unique commemorations. Faughart Hill, believed to be Brigid's birthplace, will host candlelight processions, deeply entwined with St. Brigid’s story. With outlets emphasizing the historical importance of such traditions, these processions aim to bring together people of all faiths, wrapping them in the spirit of Brigid.
The blend of historical and contemporary practices highlights St. Brigid's dual identity as both a Christian saint and pre-Christian goddess, illustrating her eternal relevance. According to Sabhbh Ní Mhaolagáin, Tourism Officer for Louth County Council, "St. Brigid holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Louth, and her legacy as a symbol of renewal, resilience, and creativity is deeply woven..."
Finally, every corner of Ireland has found ways to celebrate St. Brigid, illustrating the revitalization of interest surrounding her day. The fusion of ancient practices with modern-day events strengthens community bonds and keeps the narrative of St. Brigid alive. The collective spirit of the people strengthens their connections to their history, making February 1 not just another day but a significant chapter celebrating the life and times of one of Ireland's most remarkable figures.