As St. Brigid's Day approaches on February 1st, the birthplace of Ireland’s cherished matron saint invites visitors to celebrate this special occasion and immerse themselves in the rich heritage, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes that make Louth a must-visit destination.
Discover the Legacy of St. Brigid
Born at sunrise on February 1, 452, in Faughart, just outside Dundalk, St. Brigid’s story is intricately woven into the fabric of Louth’s history. Her life, characterized by healing, fertility, poetry, and care for the land, is beautifully linked to the Celtic Goddess Brigid, who embodies wisdom and rebirth. Growing up on her father’s farm in Faughart, she developed a profound respect for nature and the world around her. St. Brigid’s Day has its origins in the ancient Celtic festival of Imbolc, which marked fertility, the arrival of spring, renewal, and light.
Visitors can embark on a spiritual journey to the ancient site of Faughart, home to St. Brigid’s Shrine and Well, a place of pilgrimage for centuries. In 1934, Cardinal Mac Rory declared Faughart the National Shrine of St. Brigid for all of Ireland, solidifying its significance as a site of tranquil beauty and reflection. The shrine is home to Sruth Bhríde (St. Brigid’s Stream), modern and ancient Stations of the Cross, and healing stones that are revered for their sacred powers.
Adding a modern touch to this ancient legacy, visual artist Friz has depicted Brigid as both Goddess and Saint in a striking mural created for the SEEK Urban Arts Festival in Dundalk. This artwork bridges Brigid’s ancient heritage with Louth’s vibrant modern culture.
Events to Celebrate St. Brigid’s Day
A variety of events are planned across Louth to honour St. Brigid’s enduring legacy:
Candlelit Procession to Faughart Graveyard
On Sunday, February 2nd, the Brigid of Faughart Community Group will host an ancient-style candlelit procession starting at St. Brigid’s Shrine and concluding at Faughart Graveyard. Open to people of all faiths and none, the procession will be led by robed figures, a lone drummer, and local schoolchildren. It culminates at the Hill of Faughart with a fire-lit motte, candlelit ruins, and Gregorian chant, honoring Brigid’s connection to County Louth and her legacy as a Celtic Goddess and Ireland’s matron saint.
The Northern Lights Celebrating Brigid at Market Square, Dundalk
Returning this year, the Northern Lights multisensory light performance will illuminate Dundalk’s Market Square in celebration of St. Brigid. This breathtaking display, choreographed to music, intertwines historical, cultural, and spiritual elements with cutting-edge technology. Live shows will take place between 6:00pm & 7:00pm on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd February.
Brigid of Faughart Festival Events:
The festival celebrates Brigid of Faughart as Ireland’s matron Saint and pre-Christian Celtic Goddess and her birthplace of Faughart, where the story of Saint Brigid began.
An Táin Arts Centre: Brigid Symbols and Customs Workshop
Saturday 1st February - Learn to weave the iconic Brigid’s Cross and the Crios Bríd (Brigid’s belt) – ancient symbols of Brigid and share stories of Saint Brigid’s days past. All ages welcome. With Roisin Cotter and Maura Lennon. All materials provided.
Pilgrimage Walk from The Hill of Faughart to Dundalk
On Sunday, 2nd February, pilgrims are invited to walk the Day 1 route of the Brigid's Way Celtic Pilgrimage. Starting at St.Brigid’s Holy Well on the Hill of Faughart, the route leads down to St.Brigid’s Shrine and ancient stones, then through Kilcurry and Toberona, finishing with a walk through the countryside of the Lisnawilly Estate to Brigid’s Stream in Dundalk. There will be ritual including a Brigid Water Blessing, storytelling of her myths and legends and fascinating history of this wonderful part of Ireland's Ancient East.
Tour of the Sacred Sites of Faughart
Join Roisin Cotter for a tour of the Sacred Sites of Faughart starting at 11am on Bank Holiday Monday, 3rd February departing from Faughart Old Graveyard/Hill of Faughart Car park and walking to St. Brigid's Shrine (1km).
Community-Led Celebrations:
Local groups, such as Cooley Connect Well, will host Imbolc celebrations featuring traditional crafts, storytelling, foraging, and guided walks. These activities provide opportunities to reconnect with the natural and cultural heritage that Brigid symbolises.
Various locations around Louth