Imbolc Explained: Groundhog Day's Celtic Origins

Ever wonder how Groundhog Day became a thing? It started with Imbolc, a celebration of spring's arrival dedicated to the Celtic fertility goddess Brigid.

Learn the definition, etymology, and history of Imbolc, and in the process uncover how this ancient pagan agricultural festival paved the way for the famed February 2nd North American rodent-watching tradition.

(Pssst. Looking for more actionable Imbolc information? Check out my video "5 Imbolc Rituals for Welcoming Spring": 5 Imbolc Rituals for Welcoming Spring)

Intro 00:00

What Is Imbolc? 01:44

When Did the Ancient Celts Celebrate Imbolc? 05:24

How Did Imbolc Inspire Groundhog Day? 07:11

This video was adapted from an IrishMyths.com article, "Imbolc Explained: The Celtic Origins of Groundhog Day": https://irishmyths.com/2022/02/01/wha...

Books referenced (note: when you buy through the links below, I may earn a small affiliate commission):

-The Story We Carry in Our Bones: Irish History for Americans (2015): https://amzn.to/3RU31B4
-Cormac's Glossary: https://amzn.to/3J1AGa1
-The Táin: https://amzn.to/3WoKbmL
-How the Irish Saved Civilization (1995): https://amzn.to/3ZPZ4kL
-A Dictionary of Irish Mythology (1987): https://amzn.to/36HCpxg
-Groundhog Day (2003): https://amzn.to/3HhJIw0
-Ancient Legends, Mystic Charms & Superstitions of Ireland (1919): https://amzn.to/3ALF2Mc
-The Year In Ireland: Irish Calendar Customs (1972): https://amzn.to/3QURHV6

Books by me (I. E. Kneverday):

-Saint Patrick in Your Pocket: https://amzn.to/3ZWMWxG
-Irish Monsters in Your Pocket: https://amzn.to/3SXQgFO
-Samhain in Your Pocket: https://amzn.to/3Bkp2D0
-Irish Myths in Your Pocket: https://amzn.to/3Qi5xjg
-Neon Druid: An Anthology of Urban Celtic Fantasy: https://amzn.to/3BJE7yc

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