The Kilmallock Women’s Traveller Group recently came together to celebrate St. Brigid’s Day, highlighting the importance of tradition, culture and community connection.

Supported by Ballyhoura Development, the group held their first meeting of 2026 on Tuesday, January 27th, using the occasion to reconnect and mark the upcoming feast day on February 1st.

Celebrating Tradition and Heritage

Eight members of the group gathered to take part in the long-standing tradition of making St. Brigid’s Crosses using locally sourced rushes. The session created a meaningful space to reflect on cultural heritage and shared identity.

Stories were exchanged about:

• Collecting rushes from the local area
• Learning the craft from parents and grandparents
• The symbolism and protection associated with St. Brigid’s Cross

These conversations helped to keep traditions alive while strengthening connections within the group.

Joanna Lenihan, Primary Healthcare Worker with the East Limerick Traveller Programme, joined the session to demonstrate the craft and guide participants step-by-step in creating their own crosses.

Each participant left with a handmade cross — a special memento to share with family and friends, and a symbol of continuity between generations.

Supporting Community Connection

This gathering reflects the ongoing work of Ballyhoura Development in supporting Traveller groups through inclusive, culturally meaningful activities.

By creating opportunities for connection, learning and cultural expression, initiatives like this help to:

• Strengthen community bonds
• Celebrate Traveller heritage
• Support wellbeing and inclusion

East Limerick Traveller Project