Beltane, also known as May Day, is celebrated on April 30-May 1. Considered a cross-quarter holiday, or fire festival, it is one of the eight wiccan sabbats, although Beltane is honored around the world in numerous ways by various groups of individuals, including non-wiccans. A lot of information about Beltane and its extensive history can be found through the wonderful book series, Llewellyn’s Sabbat Essentials.
Landing roughly halfway between the spring equinox and summer solstice, Beltane originally signified the start of summer, although today this may slightly differ depending on what part of the world you’re in and what the weather is like (some areas still have snowfall in April!). It now more appropriately signifies that the summer season is right around the corner and the days are growing longer. Its key aspects center on a time of light, life, growth, renewal, fertility, and sexuality. Themes of fertility and sexuality are strong since Beltane represents the union of the Goddess and the Green Man, or Horned God – the coming together of female and male energies to create new life.
Many believe the name Beltane was borrowed from the old Celtic festival of Beltaine, which was held to honor the beginning of summer and marked the time when cattle were led out to open pastures to graze. Historically, this festival was widely observed in Ireland and Scotland, and was called “Bealtaine” by the Irish, and “Bealltainn” by the Scottish. Both names were derived from the Celtic word meaning “bright fire.” The Beltaine Festival is said to have been named after the Celtic god Belenus, also known in some countries as Belen, Belenos, Bel, and other names. Some say this deity was deemed a “Sun God,” and was associated with healing, light, and fire.
No Beltaine festival was complete without themes of fire, water, and flowers. Many believed the flames and ashes of large bonfires that were lit had magickal properties and could bring about good health and protection. Flowers would be worn by many (even cows would have flower garlands!) and were also used to decorate everything – garlands were hung on doors, feasting tables were adorned, and homes had scattered flowers on every threshold. Yellow flowers were mainly used as this color is most associated with fire and sunshine, but any color would do.
Maypoles became a focal point of all Beltaine festivals and would be decorated with flowers or greenery as a symbol of fertile energy, growth, and spring blooming. There was even a time when communities would compete for the biggest and best Maypole in the region. Over time, ribbons were added to Maypoles and festival-goers would dance around them using the ribbon to weave around other dancers creating a braiding effect.
A majority of these customs are still celebrated today, although they vary greatly across countries and among individuals. Beltane, or May Day, celebrations occur around the world and often times music, food, and bonfires are the main events. Many still include a Maypole and lots of dancing. Some Beltane rituals occur in the form of potlucks or picnics, while others celebrate by taking nature walks and having outdoor adventures. Due to the historical focus on fertility, some celebrations today incorporate romantic games or sexual exploration, and spellwork done during this time has a major focus on themes of love and passion.
We celebrate Beltane to welcome the warmer weather spring and summer brings us. The sun makes us feel more energetic, our spirits are lifted, and we aim to have more excitement and fun. You can celebrate Beltane in many ways to welcome in the start of the warmer weather, feel the sun shine, and appreciate nature.
Here are ways you can celebrate Beltane:
- Get out in nature! Take a walk, go for a hike, be present and away from all technology. Simply enjoy the sun and earth around you. Frolic, dance in the wind, let your body and mind run free.
- Make your own flower crown.
- Light an indoor or outdoor fire. If you don’t have a fireplace, light candles and admire the light from the flames.
- Cleanse your space, especially doorways, with sage or palo santo.
- Spring clean! Donate things you no longer use or need. You’ll be doing good while making your space feel lighter.
- Have an arts and crafts night and get creative. Find pieces from mother earth like pinecones or acorns to incorporate into your crafts. You could even make your own mini Maypole using sticks and ribbon!
