Letterkenny Cathedral Quarter set to host annual St Brigid’s Cross-making workshop

Letterkenny Cathedral Quarter is delighted to announce that their annual St Brigid’s Cross-making workshop will be taking place at Dillons Hotel on Thursday, January 29, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

This special cultural event marks St Brigid’s Day and celebrates Ireland’s rich heritage, while welcoming the beginning of spring. It is the first event in the Cathedral Quarter calendar.

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The evening will invite members of the community to come together in a relaxed and sociable setting to learn the age-old craft of weaving St Brigid’s Crosses. Deeply rooted in Irish tradition, the cross is a symbol of protection, renewal, prosperity, and hope, and has long been associated with welcoming visitors and safeguarding homes and families for the year ahead.

Open to everyone—religious and non-religious, young and old—the workshop offers a wonderful opportunity to share stories, pass on traditions, and celebrate local culture in the heart of the Letterkenny Cathedral Quarter. All materials, including traditional rushes, will be provided, though participants are very welcome to bring their own. Guidance will be available throughout the evening, with Louise Ozbay on hand to assist with the cross-making.

A spokesperson for Letterkenny Cathedral Quarter said: “Legend tells us that St Brigid converted a dying Pagan by explaining the new faith through a cross she improvised from rushes—the only materials available to her at the time. In keeping with this tradition, we’ll have rushes ready for everyone to make their own crosses. Whether for yourself or as a gift for neighbours and friends, the tradition of hanging a St Brigid’s Cross above the door is said to extend a warm welcome to visitors and protect homes and families for the year ahead.”

The evening will also celebrate the Brat Bríd, an old custom involving hanging a piece of cloth - such as a ribbon, scarf, or handkerchief - on a tree overnight. According to tradition, the cloth is believed to hold healing powers when collected the following morning.

“This is a very special time of year, linking Imbolc, the ancient Celtic festival marking the beginning of spring, Candlemas, the festival of light, and St Brigid’s Day,” the spokesperson added. “We hope people will come along to get involved, and if anyone
would like to contribute poetry, song, or other customs, we would be delighted.”

The event will also feature entertainment from the Himalayan House Band, with tea and coffee provided to ensure a warm and welcoming atmosphere. While this is a free event, donations are kindly welcomed.

Letterkenny Cathedral Quarter continues its commitment to supporting cultural events that bring life, creativity, and community spirit to the area. This St Brigid’s Cross-making workshop promises to be a meaningful gathering celebrating heritage, community, and the promise of spring.

Those who would like to help out on the evening with cross-making at the tables are warmly invited to get in touch. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Donnan Harvey on 086-3452457.