Armaleggan Border Morris at The Bear

Imbolc Festival, Friday 3rd February 8.15p.m.

At the Bear and Ragged Staff, we keep an open mind towards all forms of worship. In particular, every February, we welcome the Armaleggan Border Morris Group to the Bear to celebrate the Pagan Imbolc festival and welcome the arrival of Spring. This year, we are lucky enough for it to fall on the weekend. Armaleggan are closely associated with Cumnor, as they practice in the Village Hall here every week.

Imbolc was one of the cornerstones of the Pagan Celtic calendar. For them the success of the new farming season was of great importance. As winter stores of food were getting low, Imbolc rituals were performed to harness divine energy that would ensure a steady supply of food until the harvest six months later.

Like many Celtic festivals, the Imbolc celebrations centred around the lighting of fires. Fire was perhaps more important for this festival than others as it was also the holy day of Brigid (also known as Bride, Brigit, Brid), the Goddess of fire, healing and fertility. The lighting of fires celebrated the increasing power of the Sun over the coming months. For the Christian calendar, this holiday was reformed and renamed 'Candlemas' when candles are lit to remember the purification of the Virgin Mary.

Given the propitious Friday timing, Armaleggan will strut their stuff in our car park from 8.15-8.45, take a 30 minute beer and pizza break, then dance again from 9.15-9.45. Feel free to book a table for dinner, we will be busy on this night! We will also hold a meat raffle in the pub bar as always at 10.15. Should be a great night, children will also enjoy this spectacle. Be there or be square!!