Four Fire Festivals

The Dolmens Fire Festivals mark the turning points of the Celtic seasonal calendar, celebrating the rhythms of nature and the spirit of community. Inspired by ancient traditions once celebrated across Ireland, these gatherings use fire, storytelling, music and creativity to bring people together at key moments in the year.

Rooted in the landscapes and heritage of our area, the festivals offer a chance to reconnect with the seasons, with local culture, and with each other.

Across the year, the four traditional fire festivals; Imbolc, Bealtaine, Lughnasa and Samhain, act as seasonal markers, guiding moments of reflection, celebration and renewal. Each event is shaped by the community, blending folklore with contemporary creativity and creating welcoming, family-friendly spaces for people of all ages.

What to Expect

Each festival is unique, but you can expect a mix of:

• Fire ceremonies marking the seasonal transition
• Storytelling and folklore rooted in local heritage
• Live music and performance from local artists
• Creative activities for children and families
• Seasonal food and shared gatherings
• Moments of reflection connecting people to nature

These events are designed to be inclusive, informal, and community-led—whether you come to take part, help out, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.

Festivals Held So Far

The Dolmens Fire Festival programme continues to grow each year. Events held to date include:

• Samhain Fire Festival – marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, with firelight, remembrance and storytelling. The start of the year in the Celtic calendar (around October 31st, familiar as Hallowe’en)
• Imbolc Gathering – celebrating the first signs of spring, light, and new beginnings (around St. Brigid’s day, February 1st)
• Bealtaine Fire Festival – welcoming the arrival of summer and fertility with energy, creativity and community celebration (around May 1st familiar as May Day)
• Lughnasa Harvest Festival – giving thanks for the first harvest with food, music and connection to the land. often the whole month is dedicating to celebrating Lunasa (around August 1st familiar  as Lammas)

Each festival has been shaped by the people who attend and contribute, making every gathering a little different from the last.

Get Involved

The Fire Festivals are built by the community, for the community. There are lots of ways to take part:

• Join us at upcoming events
• Volunteer to help plan or run activities
• Share your skills in music, storytelling, crafts or performance
• Help grow the tradition for future years

Whether it’s your first time attending or you’ve been part of the journey from the start, you are always welcome around the fire.

Check back with our events page for information on the next festival