Why You Should Celebrate Lunghnasadh

Though it feels like the summer heat will never end, there are signs that fall is on its way, and one such sign is the coming of Lunghnasadh or Lammas on Aug. 1.  

Most Utahns will wonder what the heck that is as it’s not widely celebrated or in any way connected to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Since the state’s majority is LDS it's no surprise that you’ve probably never heard of this.  

If you guessed it had Celtic origins, you’d be correct. Lunghnasadh is a celebration of the harvest festival and the “first fruits of the harvest”, the Beltane Fires Society said. It’s named after Lugh, the Celtic god of sun and light.  

There are a variety of cultures and beliefs that celebrate the day. Neopagans, Wiccans, Scottish, Irish, and Manx are the most common people you’ll find that celebrate Lammas. According to NationalToday.com, the holiday dates all the way back to 921 AD.  

Now, the likelihood of finding a Lunghnasadh Festival anywhere in UT is pretty slim but there are other ways to celebrate. Plus, you can always livestream an event online and participate that way.  

Vercida says the holiday is often celebrated by baking bread and using fruits and veggies that are harvested (or bought).  

Lugh who represents light is also considered the god of craftsmanship. It’s not uncommon to find those who celebrate tinkering or crafting on or for the day. Another thing to do is grab your friends and family and have a giant feast to celebrate the “good harvest”.  

I think putting this into modern times and being grateful for all the local farmers and craftsmen is an excellent thing to celebrate. So, before or on Aug. 1 go out and make something like bread or buy a craft to celebrate the end of summer nearing.