Imbolc is the cross-quarter day between the Winter Solstice, Yule, and the Spring Equinox, Ostara. In the Southern Hemisphere many celebrate Imbolc on the 1st or 2nd of August as these dates mark the end of Winter and the start of Spring.
Also known as the Feast of Torches, Candlemas and Brigids' Day (among others), Imbolc is a time of new beginnings, fresh starts and cleaning out the old ready to welcome the new.
The Goddess Brigid is honoured as too the triple Goddess in her Maiden aspect.
In Australia, the Wattle flower is most commonly used to adorn the Imbolc Altar or Ritual Space as the flower of choice, though any yellow, white or purple flowers are also often used.
The term "Spring Cleaning" is very appropriate for this time of year with witches all over cleaning their homes, sacred spaces as well as spiritually cleansing themselves and loved ones.
Other activities include making a Brigid Cross to hang in the doorway of the home (or each room) for protection, fertility rituals and spellwork, traditional Pagan feasts and the lighting of candles or lamps in every room (if only for a short while) to signify the returning of the Sun.
There are some amazing ideas for family activities on the Internet, in our home we will be making Brigids Crosses from the long grass in our yard (we don't have corn or wheat etc.) Creating your own traditions is half the fun!
~ Lyllith Xx
More information on Goddess Brigid: https://journeyingtothegoddess.wordpress.com/2012/02/01/goddess-brigit/
Lyllith - August 20, 2020
Hi Shona,
We usually just use any long grass we have on the property, we’ve just started to grow corn so will be using those once long enough. I soak the grass to soften it and weave while still wet.
Unfortunately it’s hard to find the proper reeds over here, though you may get lucky at your local park depending on where you live.
Hope this helps!
Lyllith Xx
Shona - August 20, 2020
Hi there,i am wondering what reeds/rushes you have found to be the best when making Brigid cross? I am Irish living in Perth WA and am yet to find something that is easy to bend without snapping?
Looking forward to hearing from you,
Love and Blessings,
Shóna