This year (2026) our Brigid Fest was hosted by St John of God Hospital in their garden area near the Cafe.  We were able to celebrate their new St Brigid's Ward.  

Alice Christie joined our Events Committee and sent through the following to the Ballarat Times:

The Ballarat Irish Association are proud to announce their first event for the year, Brigid Fest, a Feast Day with many layers. The Celtic Festival of Imbolc, welcoming Spring and honoring the ancient goddess Brigid as well as the Christian St Brigid on Sunday 1st Feb 2026. This is the 4th event of this type that the Association has run. Look out for future events by us, which include: St Patrick’s Day, Bloomsday and others.

This event will be held at St John of God Hospital, Drummond Street, Ballarat, in the garden near the café. This occasion also celebrates the new ward, St Brigid’s Ward at the hospital.

Brigid, one of the three patron saints of Ireland, is surrounded by myth, legend and story. Celebrated on this day, Brigid was the goddess of fertility, Spring, new life and the coming of light. St. Brigid was regarded as the guardian of women, the patron of poets, a healer and a protector of all, including animals.

Brigid is said to have been born on February 1 near Dundalk in 450 and also said to have founded the Monastery of Kildare. As a result, the 1 st of February is a national holiday in Ireland. Her stories are spread far and wide in Ireland and resonate across the world, especially today.

Therefore, the day celebrates and honors Irish and Australian women, their culture, stories, myths, poems and songs, of which you will hear a selection. The day will commence with an introduction about Brigid, her legend, her life and works.

A highlight will be the St Brigid’s crosses and the development of this ancient art.
This event is from 4-6pm and light refreshments will be provided.
This is a free event, but for catering purposes please RSVP Mary 0407041998 by Wed 28th Jan 2026.

Chris O'Leary from the Ballarat Times published an article both before and after the event.  We are grateful for support and promotion of community events, such as ours, by the team from Ballarat Times.

23rd Jan 2026 - Article on page 16 

6th Feb 2026 - Article on page 9