What is Imbolc or Candlemas ??

Imbolc (pronounced IM-bolk), which is often called Candlemas, is the time when Wiccans and Pagans celebrate the renewing fertility of the Earth. Imbolc occurs on February 2nd. It's no coincidence that many people celebrate Groundhog Day on this date. What is Groundhog Day but a way to let Nature reassure us that spring really will come? Imbolc, a Greater or Major Sabbat, is a holiday of purification and of the renewed fertility of the Earth. The Greater or Major Sabbats -- Samhain, Beltane, Imbolc and Lughnassad -- occur at the cross quarters, the midpoints between solstice and equinox. They mark the turning of the seasons and are considered to be very powerful days in and of themselves. Midpoints are considered to be times of great power because most things in Nature reach the peak of their strength when they are in the middle of their lives.  more