Culture Night, Millstreet

I hardly slept a wink as my Airbnb was right on the road and lorries seemed to thunder through all night. Never mind, it was a glorious day and, as I was not needed until late afternoon, I went on an exploration in search of a holy well - not found but I enjoyed a peaceful lunch miles from anywhere sitting in a field with a horse. She got an apple and was very satisfied.

Then back to the well to prepare for the evening. We were holding an event for Culture Night, a country wide event with hundreds of exciting things happening.  Our event was a gathering at Tubrid well in honour of holy wells, where people were invited to place votives in the well (the second largest in Ireland) in memory of those that had died; or to leave thoughts/wishes/gratitudes, whatever they felt like really. The event was planned for 8pm and from 7 onwards a steady stream of people started appearing, some with votives previously made. Others made them on the spot, some used the ones already lining the well. We decorated everywhere with hydrangeas and other flowers, throwing them into the water. I reckon about 70 people came and as darkness descended it was magical with the candles glowing on the water. The atmosphere was respectful but relaxed, the illuminated BVM gazing down on everything casting her own impressive reflection in the water. As one woman remarked, I’m sure Our Lady hasn't seen anything like this before! We had all ages from babies to ancients, some writing the names of loved ones in their votives. We did nothing, just let people do what they felt was needed and it all seemed very special, and very real, a real community gathering. As someone mentioned, gentle gatherings like this seem even more important and precious with all the horrendous things going on in the world.  Thank you Millstreet.
(the last photo in the extras is by Patrick O Leary)