Kegeesh Ommidjagh - Foolish Fortnight

This Christmas 2026 Isle of Man stamp issue celebrates Kegeesh Ommidjagh - Foolish Fortnight, a traditional two-week festive holiday period that began around Black Thomas’ Eve on 21st December and continued until Twelfth Night on 6th January. Created in collaboration with Manx artist Felicity Wood as part of the 2026 Blein ny Gaelgey (Year of the Manx Language), the six stamps explore colourful customs, folklore and community celebrations from the Island’s festive past.

The issue brings together traditions including Cammag, Hunt the Wren, the Kissing Bush, Laair Vane, Mollag bands and the Quaaltagh, alongside stories of Christmas gatherings, music, games and festive mischief. These traditions offer an insight into how Manx communities came together during a period when only essential work was carried out and time was set aside for celebration.
Felicity Wood’s distinctive illustrations combine Manx words, characters and customs in a playful style that brings these stories to life. The issue also recognises two important anniversaries, with 90 years of Sight Matters supporting the Island’s blind and visually impaired community and 150 years of Mothers’ Union.

Available as a Mint Set, Presentation Pack, First Day Cover, Isle of Man Rate Postal Booklet, UK Rate Postal Booklet, Self-Adhesive Set and Self-Adhesive Covers, this issue offers collectors and enthusiasts an engaging celebration of Manx language, heritage and festive traditions.

Artwork: Felicity Wood
Text: Felicity Wood & Culture Vannin
Design: Felicity Wood & EJC Design
Printer: bpost
Process: Offset Lithography
Colours: 4
Paper: Tullis Russell Tru White Litho FSC NEW
Perforations: 11.5 per 2cm
Stamp Size: 32mm x 32mm
Format: Sheets of 12
Date of Issue: 20th October 2026
Limited Editions: Presentation Packs 1,000; First Day Covers 1,500