Focus on: Lughnasadh, Wicca and Pagan/Lammas, Christian, 1st August

What: Traditionally a Celtic harvest festival but later adopted and renamed by Christianity.

Why: Lughnasadh marks the first day of autumn, the first fruits of the year and the beginning of darker, shorter days.

How: Traditionally, rural communities would get together in large numbers, perform matchmaking ceremonies, participate in ritual sports contests, climb mountains, feast, dance and trade. It was a way to lift spirits during a hungry time of year when the spring and early summer harvests were over but the late summer harvest was not ready to eat. Nowadays, some traditions remain, such as fairs in Ireland and mountain hikes, and neopagans have reclaimed the date.

We always love to hear from customers about their own celebrations. Please get in touch if you have observed any of August’s festivals and would like to share stories or photos with us!