February Mural
This month’s February Mural installment of the Calendar Series is part of a 12-month project inspired by the Celtic and Roman history and mythology associated with each calendar month.
Historically, February 1st marked the first day of spring (Earrach), with February 1st also known as St. Brigid’s Day, or Imbolc in ancient times. This day is significant as it signals the beginning of spring. Brigid (or Brigit), whose name means “exalted one,” is a goddess from pre-Christian Ireland. She is revered for her associations with wisdom, poetry, healing, protection, smithing, and domesticated animals. As a fertility goddess, Brigid is linked with other spring deities across Europe, all representing nature’s rebirth. Brigid, a fire goddess, is also seen as a protector of mothers and families.
Hanging a Brigid’s cross from the rafters of the home was believed to bring blessings and protection for the entire year. Spring cleaning was a customary practice around Brigid’s Day, and people traditionally visited holy wells to pray for good health, often walking “sunwise” around the well.
Imbolc is also associated with the Cailleach, the divine hag in Gaelic tradition. According to legend, she gathers firewood for the remainder of the winter on Imbolc. If the weather is bright and sunny, it means she is gathering firewood for a longer winter. If the day is stormy or foul, it signals that the Cailleach is sleeping, and winter will soon end.
In February, the early signs of spring begin to appear in Ireland, with flowers like snowdrops and crocuses in bloom.
February corresponds to the second lunar month, which is ruled by the Rowan Tree—a symbol of powerful feminine energy and the second letter in the Ogham alphabet.
Februarius
The Romans named the month of February “Februarius,” drawing from even older Etruscan traditions. Long before Rome’s rise, the Etruscans honored Februus, the god of purification, and Febris, the goddess of fever. The Romans celebrated Lupercalia, a three-day festival starting on the Ides of February. It began on the 13th and ended on the 15th. This festival played a key role in Roman culture. However, Pope Saint Gelasius I strongly opposed its pagan fertility rituals. In 494 AD, he replaced Lupercalia with the Feast of the Purification of the Virgin Mary. This change aligned the celebration with Christian values. Over time, the Feast of St. Valentine further distanced the holiday from its pagan roots. It shifted the focus to love while maintaining Christian morality. Although Lupercalia eventually disappeared, February kept its cultural significance, especially through St. Valentine’s Day
