Make St Brigid's Crosses at activity day in Turlough Park

February 1 marks Lá Fhéile Bríde, and there are many traditions and customs dedicated to Ireland's one and only female patron saint. 

The crafting of St Brigid’s Crosses is still a popular custom in many Irish homes today, and the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, has set up a drop-in activity to help keep the tradition alive. On the 27 and 28 of January, from 2pm to 4pm, call into Turlough park and learn, or refresh your memory, on making St Brigid's Crosses. 

The Museum has an ongoing display which explores St Brigid's Day customs, as well as a temporary display of St Brigid's Crosses demonstrating regional styles and variations throughout Ireland with a variety of different materials used.

Additionally, there will be free guided tours of the Irish Folklife Collection on both days, with a focus on objects, customs and traditions associated with St Brigid.

St Brigid's Day (and the older Celtic festival of Imbolc) is an important seasonal marker, according to folk tradition, the day signifies the start of spring, new life, fertility and growth.

Clodagh Doyle, Keeper of the Irish Folklife Collection at the National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, outlines some interesting customs associated with the female saint, including the festive meal; no celebration would be complete without it! The traditional meal of the day consisted of a supper of potatoes and freshly churned butter, with apple cakes or barm-brack served with tea. The family would eat this meal together while constructing their St Brigid’s crosses.

The free, walk-in event is for people of all ages. For further information see here.