The Wheel of Year Festival is an exciting, new opportunity for local communities in East Clare to come together to celebrate the Celtic festivals while showcasing the collaboration between members of the Visit East Clare network, local businesses, and the local community.
Imbolc
The inaugural Tourism East Clare celebration of Imbolc involves a series of events taking place between the 27th of January and the 8th of February across East Clare.
Immerse yourself in the magic of the Imbolc Festival, a captivating celebration nestled within our vibrant series of Wheel of the Year events. As the seasons shift, East Clare comes alive with the spirit of Imbolc, marking the beginning of Spring and paying homage to the ancient Celtic Goddess Brigid. Highlighted events in the Imbolc Festival include poetry workshops, walks, informative and engaging talks, and yoga.
Imbolc holds significance in the Celtic calendar as it heralds the onset of Spring. Approximately 2000 years ago, during early Celtic times, Imbolc was a joyous occasion dedicated to honouring the Celtic Goddess Brigid, with the advent of Christianity in Ireland, the revered mantle of the Goddess Brigid seamlessly transitioned to Saint Brigid. The pagan celebration of the goddess Brigid metamorphosed into the Christian observance known as Saint Brigid's Day.
Imbolc Programme of Events
Dawn Walk at the 12 O'Clock Hills
When: 6:45am Saturday, 27th January
Location: 12 O'Clock Hills
Kickstart the festival of Imbolc with the Annual 12 O'Clock Hills Dawn Walk. Explore the breathtaking beauty of nature as the first light of day graces the 12 O'Clock Hills. After an invigorating 8km walk, treat yourself to a hearty-cooked breakfast between 9:00 and 11:00 am in the Kilkishen Cultural Centre.
Please assemble at the Belvoir car-park Eircode V95YKN5 on Saturday next from 6:45am for a no later than 7:15am hike start.
Cost: The Breakfast including the Dawn Walk has a price of €10 including the booking fee, an optional donation for the hike only.
Booking: Breakfast numbers are limited to 100, so booking is ESSENTIAL for breakfast and Dawn Walk. Register here.
St Brigid Poetry Workshops
Date: 2:30pm-3:30pm Thursday, 1st & 8th February
Location: Killaloe Library
Join us for a captivating two-part workshop series at Killaloe Library, hosted by the talented Jasmina Susic.
Workshop 1: Exploring Brigid and Imbolc (1st February)
Embark on a captivating journey into the rich tapestry of Brigid's significance in modern Ireland. Immerse yourself in a dynamic exploration of history, captivating stories, and cherished traditions. Revel in the eloquence of Brigid's poetry. As the workshop unfolds, unleash your creativity during a thought-provoking writing exercise. Be inspired to craft poems and stories that pay homage to Brigid and the enchanting spirit of Imbolc
Workshop 2: Brigid's Poetry Cloak (8th February)
This second workshop will be a continuation of the first and will start with a talk on the poetry creation process. Each attendee will be asked to read their contribution before the group uses their creative efforts to combine the works into one collaborative piece of work.
Cost: Free
Booking Essential: Text or WhatsApp Arlene on 086 358 6293.
Meditation and Talk on St Brigid
Date: 12pm-1pm, Friday, 2nd February
Location: Tulla Library
The event commences with a meditation session, allowing participants to center their thoughts and cultivate a sense of inner calm. Following this meditative start, delve into an informative talk centered around the life of Saint Brigid. Explore the various myths and traditions woven into the fabric of her existence, shedding light on the rich tapestry of beliefs and stories that have shaped her revered legacy.
Cost: Free
Booking is Essential: Contact Tulla Library to secure your spot on 065 6835919 or by email tulla@clarelibrary.ie
Imbolc Short Talk Series
**THIS EVENT IS NOW FULLY BOOKED***
Date: 1:30pm-2:30pm, Friday, 2nd February
Location: St Flannan's Well (Behind AIB Killaloe), Killaloe
Join Rev. Dr. Richard Marsh, Dean of St. Flannan's Cathedral, Jasmina Susic and Killaloe-Ballina Local History Society at St Flannan's Well for our Imbolc Short Talks Series. The location is fitting as St. Brigid is renowned as the patron saint of holy wells, symbolising the sacred and healing properties associated with these revered water sources.
The short talk series includes a talk on history, importance and mystery of Sheela-na-Gigs in Europe and Ireland. The talk will also focus on Killaloe's very own Sheela-na-Gig, as well as exploring how Sheela-na-Gig interwines with Irish folklore.
Cost: Free
Booking is Essential: Text or WhatsApp Arlene on 086 358 6293.
Yoga with Views of Lough Derg
Date: 11am-12pm, Saturday, 3rd February
Location: Killaloe Sailing Clubhouse
Join Jennifer Edwards, local yoga teacher, for a yoga class at the Killaloe Sailing Club Clubhouse where the tranquil views of the lake provide a picturesque backdrop for a rejuvenating and mindful practice.
The class is suitable for all levels, but please bring a mat. After the class you can enjoy some tea or coffee in the peaceful surrounds of the sailing club.
Cost: Free
Book: Text or Call Jen on 086 886 8653.
Nature Walk & Herbal Insights Talk
Date: 11am-1:30pm, Thursday, 8th February
Location: Ardboula House, Tulla
Embark on a delightful Ramblers Guided Walk, courtesy of Clare Walks Ltd, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of the surroundings. Following the invigorating walk, indulge in a selection of refreshments provided by Briar Cafe at the charming Ardboula House in Tulla.
To enhance the experience, join Siobhan from Colourful Creations Tulla Garden Centre for an insightful talk on medicinal herbs and plants, unlocking the secrets of nature's healing wonders. Immerse yourself in this enriching event, combining the joys of exploration, culinary delights, and herbal wisdom.
Cost: Walks are free with an optional donation which goes towards the future maintenance of the East Clare Way and the Mid Clare Way walking routes.
Booking is Essential: Text or WhatsApp Arlene on 086 358 6293.
Children's Resources
Enhance your family visit to East Clare with a touch of creativity! As part of our Imbolc festivities, we've prepared children's colouring sheets to add an extra layer of fun to your exploration.
