The Tailteann Games, also known as the Tailtin Fair, Áenach Tailteann, Aonach Tailteann, Assembly of Talti, Óenach Tailten, Fair of Taltiu or Festival of Taltii, were funeral games associated with the
Programme cover of the first modern Tailteann Games held by the Irish Free State in August 1924
Lughnasadh, Lughnasa or Lúnasa is a Gaelic festival marking the beginning of the harvest season. Historically, it was widely observed throughout Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man. Traditionally,
Tailteann Games (ancient)
…took her name and was later called Tailtin in County Meath. The event was held during the last fortnight of July and culminated with the celebration of Lughnasadh, or Lammas Eve (1 August). Modern folklore claims that the Tailteann Games started around 1600 BC, with some sources claiming as far back as 1829 BC…
A corn dolly representing the God Lugh
The Corleck Head is a carved stone head with three faces associated with a site of Lughnasadh celebrations in Ireland. It dates from the 1st or 2nd century AD.
Pilgrims climbing Croagh Patrick on Reek Sunday. It is believed that climbing hills and mountains has formed a major part of the festival since ancient times, and the Reek Sunday pilgrimage is likely a continuation of this tradition.
The Puck Fair circa 1900, showing the feral goat (King Puck) atop his "throne"