Lammas also known as Lughnasadh is a pagan celebration marking the beginning of the harvest season. It’s held midway between the summer solstice and the autumn equinox. Its name derives from the Celtic god of light, Lugh and the word “nasad” meaning assembly.
There are a number of legends around this festival and one of the earliest is a 15th century versio of Tochmarc Emire a medieval Irish legend which suggests the holiday celebrated Lugh’s wedding feast. Other legends put it down to his foster mother’s funeral.
Traditional ways to celebrate include:
- Bread making
- Creating a Lammas altar
- Making candles