The Fire Festivals have been celebrated for millennia in Ireland and this series explores their history and continual evolution as they respond to the spiritual and communal needs of Ireland in the 21st century. The series delves into the symbolism and mythology central to each festival, and the impact that these ancient traditions have on Irish culture and identity.
Ciarán Ó Cofaigh, Producer and originator of the concept for the series says “Na Féilte Tine (The Fire Festivals) is not only a study of the ancient Irish festivals but also an exploration of the Irish psyche.
The four programmes mirror the cyclical nature of the wheel of the year: Samhain to welcome the start of Winter and the new year; Imbolg to welcome Spring; Bealtaine to celebrate the beginning of Summer and Lúnasa to herald the Autumn harvest.
As a reflection of the yearly cycle, each event programme will air on the festival Bank Holiday every 3 months, Samhain the first episode was broadcast on the Halloween bank holiday in October 2024; programme 2 Imbolg was aired on Brigid’s Bank Holiday in early February and programme 3 Bealtaine on the May Bank Holiday. Throughout the series in cities and towns around the country, communities will come together to celebrate these ancient traditions.
The fourth and final programme Lúnasa will air on 04.08.25
For anyone who missed the first 3 episodes, Samhain, Imbolg & Bealtaine - They are available to view on the RTÉ Player, linked below.
Episode 1: Samhain
https://www.rte.ie/player/series/na-féilte-tine/10001581-00-0000?epguid=IP10001582-01-0001
Episode 2: Imbolg
https://www.rte.ie/player/series/na-féilte-tine/10001581-00-0000?epguid=IP10001582-01-0002
Episode 3: Bealtaine
https://www.rte.ie/player/series/na-f%C3%A9ilte-tine/10001581-00-0000?epguid=IP10001582-01-0003
Na Féilte Tine (The Fire Festivals) was commissioned by RTÉ and Coimisiún na Meán, with support from the Government of Ireland through Section 481.
Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKXpZbBePm8