BLAZING sods of turf, marching traditional Irish musicians, colourful costumes and a giant St Brigid brought the town of Killorglin to life as locals celebrated the revival of the Biddy’s Day festival at the weekend.
They turned out in force to celebrate St Brigid, the Celtic goddess and saint with a gala parade, music sessions, workshops, a historical talk, fire dancers and street entertainers.
The events of the one-day celebration included a St Brigid’s Cross and straw hat making workshop, brush dancing exhibitions, bodhrán, spoons and bones classes, storytelling sessions and a GAA tournament in memory of popular local Christy Kissane which, perhaps appropriately, was won by local club Laune Rangers.
The night owls were also well catered for with rousing trad sessions in the pubs, concerts and a comedy session.
The Biddy tradition goes way back and it was once part of the four ancient Celtic festivals along with Lá Bealtaine, Lughnasa and Samhain.
A visit from the Biddy is said to bring good luck, fertility and prosperity to dwellings.
Pictures: Valerie O’Sullivan. Click on individual images for details
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