Imbolg differs from the other Celtic Fire Festivals (Samhain, Bealteine, and Lughnasadh) because the entire group does not celebrate it. It is a festival for the family and takes place at home. It is a time to think about the start of spring, a time to be with family, and a time to decide how to implement the things decided on during Samhain (the end of summer festival and a time for self-reflection). This festival is unique in that it is the only festival that is prepared by women.
St. Brigid is an integral part of this festival. To that end, a doll representing Brigid is constructed. When the house is ready, the doll is taken outside and Brigid called. Subsequently, the doll is brought into the house and represents Bridget at the festivities.
Another aspect of this festival has to do with predicting the onset of spring. In Scotland, they search to see if snakes are out and about. If so, an early spring is predicted (in Ireland they look for hedgehogs…these are both similar to Groundhog day in the United States).
