What is Imbolc?
Imbolc is associated with the lactation of the ewes which begins to occur at this time of year (though the word may be interpreted simply as 'milking', and signifies the coming of Spring. Imbolc is our only indoor event, which is fitting because in the northern hemisphere, this is the coldest time of the year and the Clann would likely be huddled together indoors around the hearth. It is the feast of Bridget (Bride) who is honored as the Goddess of poets, smiths and healers.

What do we do at the event?Crafts table, 1998
A craft table is set up where all those who have made an item in the past year display their work. It is tradition that all members produce some kind of craft for the table or risk the satire of the Fili, but anyone attending the feast is encouraged to participate as well.

In addition to the usual feasting, music, and indoor games, the Clann auction is also held at Imbolc. Extra items of garb, jewelry, as well as craft items (which may also be displayed on the craft table) are donated to the Clann for sale at auction. This generates some income for the Clann while providing a good way for newcomers to aquire items they may need in their pursuit of full membership.

But isn't it Candlemas?
For those of Christian persona, the date of Imbolc is coincident with Candlemas of the liturgical calendar which is fixed as 40 days after the nativity as a celebration of the Virgin Mary. Traditionally, beeswax candles to be used for the year would be blessed by a priest with an aspergillum. It is important to note that this observation is not period for our group for though Candlemas is one of the more ancient Christian holidays, it spread west from Rome slowly and did not make it even as far as France until well after the 8th century.

More resources
As more sources of information are gathered about Imbolc, they will be added as links below.