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Term: Lughnasadh

DEFINITIONs:
1.  In modern Pagan practice, one of the festivals of the eightfold year-wheel, usually celebrated on or about August 1. The day is also known by the English name of Lammas. Lughnasadh is derived from an old Irish festival of the same name, celebrated in late summer with horse races and temporary “teltown marriages” that lasted for one year.

In modern Irish Gaelic, Lughnasadh is the name for the month of August.
SOURCE:  The New Encyclopedia of the Occult, by John Michael Greer
2.  The first in the trilogy of harvest festivals in ancient Celtic culture. It marked the beginning of the harvest season and the decline of summer into winter. It was also known as Lammas from the Saxon word Hlaf-mass, the Feast of Bread. Festivities and rituals typically centered around the assurance of a bountiful harvest season and the celebration of the harvest cycle.
SOURCE:  Encyclopedia of Wicca & Witchcraft, by Raven Grimassi
Related Encyclopedia Articles
Lughnasadh Ritual
by Sandra Kynes
Setup Items needed for this ritual include: Six pieces of fruit, vegetables or a combination placed in a basket near the altar; Chalice; A wand or athame can be used to cast the circle; Honey mead or other honeyed drink such as chamomile tea; Cornbread on a plate; A small cup filled with ...
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