Celebrate St. Brigid’s Day at OPW locations nationwide

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is delighted to announce a number of events taking place at OPW locations nationwide to celebrate St. Brigid. From tours to demonstrations there is something for all to enjoy.

February 1, marks the celebration of Lá Fhéile Bríde. This was an important festival in Irish folk tradition, celebrating femininity, blessings and protection. St. Brigid’s day also marks the beginning of Spring.

Clonmacnoise Visitor Centre is offering visitors the opportunity to create their own St. Brigid’s crosses. Materials and step-by-step instructions will be provided to guide participants through the process. Colouring sheets and activity worksheets will be available for young aspiring artists to enjoy.

The National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin invites visitors to explore the folklore and mythology surrounding Brigid while witnessing the first signs of Spring in the beautiful gardens. Visitors can learn all about St. Brigid at the ‘Brigid’s day: History, Mystery and Magic’ tours which are running from 31 January to 2 February. Booking is essential.

Why not celebrate spring and enjoy live tunes at the Botanic Gardens from Ireland’s finest composers at ‘The Irish Composers Collective: Sounds of Spring’ on Sunday, 1 February.

St Brigid Cross making demonstrations are also being held in the National Botanic Gardens on 1 February. Visitors are encouraged to try their hand at making St. Brigid’s crosses. Come and see the technique behind making the traditional Brigid’s cross with step-by-step guidance, using fresh rushes.

The Main Guard, Clonmel is hosting an informative presentation about St. Brigid on Saturday, 31 January. Visitors can enjoy the activities on offer and learn more about St. Brigid’s legacy.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to celebrate St. Brigid's Day at OPW locations nationwide. Learn about the history of St. Brigid and immerse yourself in the traditions of this beloved saint. Lá Fhéile Bríde!

For more information and a full list of events see links below or visit www.heritageireland.ie

For more information about the events please see links below:

Clonmacnoise Visitor Centre, Offaly

St Bridget’s Day Crosses – link

The National Botanic Garden, Glasnevin

Brigid’s day: History, Mystery and Magic - link

Brideog for Imbolc - link

St Brigid Cross making demonstrations - link

The Main Guard, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary

St. Brigid’s Day Presentation Session

NOTES

OPW spokespersons are available for interview upon request to discuss this initiative. Please contact pressoffice@opw.ie for more information and to arrange an interview.

The Office of Public Works (OPW)

The OPW provides accommodation for Government Services and manages much of the State’s property portfolio.

It cares for 780 heritage sites, including national monuments, historic parks, gardens and buildings. It is the Government’s principal engineering agency, providing an engineering service to the Flood Risk Management and Estate Portfolio Management functions of the OPW as well as to other Government Departments.

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