Is it Spring?

Ah, the debate about when Spring begins. For centuries, this has been a debate in Ireland, with both sides passionately making their case. On the one hand, there is the Celtic tradition that Spring starts in February, and on the other, there is the popular belief that Spring begins in March. So, which is it? Let’s take a look at both sides of the argument and try to come up with an answer.

The Celtic Tradition

The most traditional view is that Spring begins in February. According to Celtic lore and mythology, the start of Spring was celebrated on Imbolc. Imbolc, the festival marking the beginning of spring has been celebrated since ancient times. It is a midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox, a Cross Quarter Day, and can fall between the 2nd & 7th of February, this year it’s February 5th. The Celts believed that this was the time of year when the earth began to wake up from its winter sleep and the days started to get longer and warmer.

The Celts celebrated this time of year with rituals such as lighting bonfires and feasting. In Ireland, this festival is still celebrated today and is known as Imbolc. It is a time for reflection and renewal, focusing on the coming of Spring and the promise of new life.

The March Argument

The other popular belief is that Spring begins in March. This argument is mainly based on the astronomical definition of the start of Spring, which is closely linked to the vernal equinox. The vernal equinox is the moment when the sun is directly above the equator, and this usually happens around the 20th of March each year.

This date is also significant for meteorologists, who use the vernal equinox as the point at which Spring is said to begin. It is based on the fact that, on this day, the amount of daylight and darkness is equal, and the days start to become longer than the nights. This is why many people believe that the start of Spring should be in March.

The Debate

So, where does that leave us? It’s clear that there is a strong argument for both sides, and it seems that the debate will continue for some time. Of course, the reality is that Spring doesn’t begin on a single day, but is a gradual process that takes place over a period of weeks and months.

It also varies from year to year, and even from region to region. The weather patterns in Ireland can be unpredictable and, in some years, Spring may feel like it arrives earlier than usual, while in other years it may seem like it’s taking its time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the debate about when Spring begins in Ireland is an interesting one that is likely to be around for some time. While there is a strong argument for both sides, the reality is that Spring is a gradual process that takes place over a period of weeks and months, and is different from year to year. So, for us, it really comes down to going with your Head - March, or your Heart, February. 

Spring has Sprung!