Candlemas

 
Pronunciation: /ˈkand(ə)lmas, -məs/

noun

  • a Christian festival held on 2 February to commemorate the purification of the Virgin Mary (after childbirth, according to Jewish law) and the presentation of Christ in the Temple. Candles were traditionally blessed at this festival.

Origin:

Old English Candelmæsse (see candle, Mass)