An audience of 50 enjoyed the lore, traditions and songs associated with the Celtic/Pagan fire festival, Imbolc, as conveyed in music and word by Castlebay on February 2.

Harpist Julia Lane explained the Celtic/Pagan Wheel of the Year is comprised of eight festivals: Yule (the Winter Solstice), Imbolc (also Brigid's Day) in February, Ostara (the vernal equinox), Beltane (or May Eve), Litha or Midsummer (solstice) in June; Lammas or Lughnasadh in August, Mabon (autumnal equinox) in September and Samhain (Halloween) in October.

In February, at Imbolc, comes the first signs of spring. Although we cannot see it, underground snowdrops and crocus are coming to life announcing the impending end of winter. Imbolc brings hope.

It is a day to sweep fireplaces and hearths, lighting new fires and candles, and for giving thanks to Brigid, Ireland's Goddess Brigid, the patroness of healing, blacksmithship, poetry, light and fire — the fire of creativity and the fire of creativity, hearths and skills related to fire, such as blacksmithing.

Castlebay, Fred Gosbee and Lane, delighted their audience with a few tunes from their Imboc CD, “Rekindling the Fire.” Lane, on her harp with Celtic symbols, released magic into the air with each string plucked, and Gosbee on violin and an assortment of flutes, guitar and slide whistle, enchanted.

Some of the songs performed from the CD included “Smooring Rune/Fire on the Hearth/The Peat Fire Flame;” “Gloomy Winter's Noo Awa/Spring/Smiling Spring” and “The Harp of Dagda,” and several others in the 90 minute program at River Arts in Damariscotta.