Welcoming Lunasaghadh
The arrival of the harvest season marks a special time in the year. Helen Lilley from The Sacred Tree in Derry shows us how to honour the new season.
As the wheel of the year begins to turn again and as the golden sun dips lower in the sky and fields shimmer with ripening grain, the ancient festival of Lúnasa (also known as Lughnasadh) arrives to mark the beginning of the harvest season.
Rooted in the Celtic calendar and rich in myth, symbolism, and gratitude, Lúnasa is a time to celebrate the bounty of the land.
Traditionally celebrated on August 1st, Lúnasa heralds the first harvest, especially of grain such as wheat and barley.
This sacred threshold between summer and autumn represents a moment of transition and transformation, from growth to gathering, from labour to reward.
The festival takes its name from the Irish god Lugh (Lú), a divine figure of many talents: warrior, craftsman, poet, and king.
To celebrate this festival at home here are a few ideas:
- Bake a loaf of bread and share it with loved ones or neighbours.
- Visit a farmers’ market and support local growers.
- Create a gratitude list for the “fruits” of your year so far.
- Host a gathering with music, storytelling, or games.
- Hike a nearby hilltop to honour ancient pilgrimages.
Whether you walk through fields or city parks, bake bread or light a candle, this ancient festival still speaks.
Honour the harvest, give thanks to the land, and prepare for the seasons to come.
Blessings,
Helen xx
The Sacred Tree Derry
🌐 www.thesacredtreederry.com
📧 @thesacredtreederry
📍 18 The Craft Village, Shipquay Street, Derry, BT48 6AR
