Symbol of fertility, faithfulness, peace, health, and prosperity.
On August 1st, the Lughnasadh festival was held to commemorate the end of summer and the beginning of fall. It takes place on the equinox of the summer solstice and the autumn equinox. Lugh Lamhfhada, a sun god, was named after the month of August, and the festival was named after him. He was a high king of Ireland and the leader of the fairies. After clearing the lands of Ireland for cultivation, Lugh’s mother died. In her honor, Lugh conducted a burial service and athletic events. Athletic competitions, music, horse racing, storytelling, matchmaking, and contract negotiations were all on the agenda. Every year, the festival gathered the Irish Kings together to debate and settle their differences. The origins of this festival can be traced back to the Neolithic period.
The first harvest of maize harvests kicked off the Lughnasadh festival. Corn was offered to the gods as a sacrifice. A bull was killed and sacrificed. People participated in tournaments and acted out a play. The play’s central premise was a battle between the gods Lugh and Crom Dubh, a devilish god. Crom Dubh wants to keep all of the harvests for himself, whilst Lugh wants to share them with everyone. The conflict between Lugh and Balor, wicked spirits that cause a drought that represents the summer heat, might also be discussed in the play. High jumping, swimming, boxing, jogging, wrestling, horse racing, and spear throwing were among the athletic events. Bonfires were lit to pay homage to the sun god and to pray for favorable weather. People also negotiated deals and bargains during the celebration. In Ireland, a couple might have their hands tied in a knot and partake in a year-and-a-day trial marriage. During the Lughnasadh festival, these marriage contracts were commonly announced. Farmers would form trading alliances, and competing tribes would meet to talk business. People would go to sacred wells, decorate them with flowers, and leave presents for the gods in order for them to be healthy and happy. The Lughnasadh celebration is still commemorated in current times with garlands, walking tours, and a slew of fairs and festivals held throughout August.