Celtic age Laa Luanys tradition

Tuesday, 1 August 2017 16:45

Day fostered 'rude and indecent behaviour'

A tradition from the Celtic age can be celebrated upon Manx hills today (1 August).

It's Laa Lunays, a time where acts of faith for the ancient god 'Lug' were undertaken by the Celts, who climbed up peaks such as Snaefell and South Barrule.

The practice later entered Christian tradition in the 18th century, and was often accompanied by a service and music.

Yet some of the day's more pagan elements remained - one record documents 'very rude and indecent behaviour' by young people during the celebration.

Culture Vannin produced a video recreating the tradition with musicians Matt Creer and Josephine Evans - you can watch the full video on Culture Vannin's facebook page, or its Vimeo and Youtube channels.

Here's Matt speaking about the day: