Lughnasadh, which is now known more frequently as Lammas, is the Celtic Festival which celebrates the first harvest, and the start of Autumn. This holiday is celebrated on the 1st or 2nd of August. However, the Celts used to celebrate it on the first full moon in the month of August.



Originally named for the Celtic god, Lugh of Many Talents, it’s a time for celebration, and expressing gratitude for all the Divine gifts in your life.

The story goes that Lugh journeyed to Tara, where Nuada was king, and asked to become part of the court. However, the doorkeeper told Lugh that only a craftsman, someone with a special gift to offer the court, would be admitted.

Lugh told him that he was a skilled blacksmith. But they already had a blacksmith.
Lugh told him he was a skilled harpist. But they already had a skilled harpist.
Lugh told him he was a skilled swordsman. But they already had a skilled swordsman.
Lugh told him he was a skilled poet. But they already had a skilled poet.
Lugh told him he was a skilled horseman. But they already had a skilled horseman.

Time after time, Lugh mentioned a skill, and the doorman informed him they already had someone who could perform that particular trade.

Finally Lugh asked the doorman if they had anyone who could perform all those skills. The doorman had to admit they did not, and Lugh was admitted into the court of Nuada.

We all have talents that are waiting to be expressed. We are creative beings, and we were created to allow Source to work through us – which means we are here to give something to the world. That “something” comes from a place of love, and we will feel a passionate call from our soul to allow that “something” to come into being. That expression will allow us to be of higher service to ourselves and those around us.

Nothing is impossible. Eric Butterworth said that anything God has done, God can do – which means that because Source works through you, your dream – no matter how impossible it may seem – can be realized.

Personally, I choose to celebrate Lughnasadh on the eve of the first full moon in August. You can celebrate with friends and family, or on your own. If I’m in a group, I always like to start with some drumming, then tell the story of Lugh. Afterwards, we all reflect on what we perceive to be our gifts and talents, and how we can express those in the world. We may do a meditation, and then share in a potluck.



However you choose to honor this festival, remember that it’s also about honoring your own divine gifts, and how you choose to share your light with the world.