Following Herstory’s successful 3 year campaign, St. Brigid’s Day is Ireland’s new national holiday - the first named in honour of a woman: Brigid, our matron Saint and Celtic Goddess and a celebration of all mná. Traditionally Brigid’s Day is Imbolc, the first day of Spring, the return of the light and the ancient Celtic festival of the goddess. St. Brigid was Ireland’s first environmentalist, a passionate protector of nature and carer of animals and all living things. An icon and role model for our times.
St. Brigid’s Eve, 31st January
5.30 - 10pm: Potato Market Naas
5.30 - 6.30pm: Wonderful Barn, Leixlip
7.30 - 8.30pm: Maynooth Castle
10pm - 11.30pm: Athy Library
St. Brigid’s Day, 1st February
5.30 - 9pm: Potato Market Naas
The Herstory Light Show in Kildare is part of the fantastic Brigid 1500 Festival, funded by Kildare County Council Council Creative Ireland Programme.
THE ART
Herstory launched an Open Call on Samhain 2022, inviting artists to create artwork for the light show for St. Brigid's Day. Artists were invited to explore Brigid - woman, goddess and saint. Alternatively they could create a portrait of modern women who embody her qualities: Environmentalist, Feminist, LGBTQ+ Icon, Healer, Pioneer, Human Rights Activist, Goddess of the Arts, Alchemist, Wisdom Weaver.
A small selection of the artwork you can expect to see:
Thanks to all the artists who submitted. We were so inspired by the response with art from the island of Ireland and internationally, with submissions in from people from Iran, Kazakhstan, France, UK, Brazil, Germany and more. The standard of art and volume of submissions we received this year was absolutely incredible.
You’ll see a selection of these submissions throughout the Herstory Light Festival.
