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The festival of Lughnasa was first mentioned in Irish mythology, specifically in the medieval text "Lebor Gabála Érenn" (The Book of the Taking of Ireland). According to legend, Lughnasa was established by the god Lugh himself to commemorate the death of his foster-mother, Tailtiu. The festival was celebrated on July 31st or August 1st, marking the beginning of harvest time in Ireland. the festival of lughnasa maire macneill pdf
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MacNeill demonstrated that Lughnasa was not just a domestic harvest celebration but a public assembly ( Óenach ). These were tribal gatherings held on hilltops, often associated with burial mounds (tumuli). The festival was celebrated on July 31st or