Seo linn Imbolc, the start of spring!

On Feb 1st we celebrate Imbolg, one of the four Irish fire festivals (the others being Bealtaine, Lúnasa and Samhain). The word ‘Imbolg’ comes from the Irish “i mbolg” (in the belly), celebrating the very start of spring, when animals are carrying their young. Astronomically, this is a period between the winter solstice and spring equinox, and the period in early February when ancient Ireland celebrated the goddess Brigid (and later, the feast of St. Brigid). Imbolg can be interpreted as a feminine festival, and is seen as a great time to meet friends and celebrate hopes and ambitions for the year ahead.

Speaking of hopes and ambitions, TEG have recently announced plans for in-person exams in Washington DC this year! This will be the first full-credit exams offered in the USA since our last in 2019. You can register your interest in these exams now, or come to our Information Session this month. These TEG exams are a unique opportunity to gain an internationally-recognised Irish language certification in the USA, and also an excellent learning target for all students. To start preparing, check out our video courses and upcoming live classes in March. Before that, however, we have a Free Irish Workshop on Feb 9th…spring is indeed a busy time of new beginnings!