The féile begins with the exchange of uisce batha (“Oo-shkee Bah-thah”), or the water of life, by founding Brehons and clan representatives.

The tóirse iontach (“tor-shuh ee-un-tahk”), or great torch known as The Flame of Magamon is lit. Legend holds that this flame symbolizes the virility of the Chieftain, which apparently was legendary, too, within the clan lore.

In honor and recognition of Cormac’s prowess as a wise warrior, the féile features comórtais iomaíocht (“kuh-more-tesh ah-may-okt”), or competitions of physical or mental challenge. Most common are caber toss, stone put, archery, and mock battles using representations of sword and spear and imagination. No skill is needed whatsoever!

The Bhean Magamon (“Bee-un”), or Lady of Magamon, is chosen by the Brehons from among Milesian and Tuatha de Danann members. The Lady is selected for her spirited wit, beauty of character, and remarkable feats and talents throughout the festival. Once called Maiden of Magamon, our féile today has moved away from the old, alliterative title. The honor is held for a period of one Celtic year until the féile again takes place.

One honorable man is bestowed the title Chéad Fhear (“Hade Fair”), or First Man of the clans. This individual is chosen by the Brehons from among the represented clans. This position is awarded to he who, through valor and determination, stands out among opponents in the comórtais iomaíocht. The honor is held for a period of one Celtic year until the féile again takes place. The Chead Fear is invited to join the Brehons in the Uisce Batha of the following year’s feile.

Upon the unfortunate soul behaving in a manner contrary to the mood and manner of An Feile Arsa Magamon, the not-so-honorary title of Sassenach, meaning Outlander or Outcast, is bestowed. Though historically this individual would be chased from clan territory by clan members armed with rotten vegetables, today we think carrying the shameful title for one Celtic year is a just sentence.

Any féile must have Bia (“Bee-ya”), or food. After a day of contest, break bread with your clan members and friends. While the menu of today’s celebrations might not be identical to the original féile held by Cormac Magamon, food is still an important ritual. Guests are asked to bring one food item to share with the clans and to kindly note any allergens.

A féile without ale is no féile at all. Deog (“Dee-og”) means drink, drought, or potion in old Irish. Many a cask will be cracked, and many a tankard will be filled, and then emptied…repeatedly. Non-alcoholic beverages of all sorts will be available as well. Guests are encouraged to bring a bottle or beverage to share during the celebration and to kindly consider travel arrangements for a safe return home.

Story, song, poetry and prose are as much a cornerstone of Féile ársa Magamon as contest. Our festival will conclude with a bonfire- a place for all to share a song, story, dance, or other expression of the soul.