Celebrating Beltane is making somewhat of a comeback; see attached image and links below for various events around the country. If you are not familiar with Beltane – then read on…
In the Gaelic languages of Ireland, The Isle of Man and Scotland Bealtaine designates the 1st May. The Anglicized spelling is Beltane meaning Bright Fire. Ancient Celts saw fire as a central part of the time of year, marking the mid point between spring and summer – opening the light half of the Celtic year. Cattle would have been released back into fields driven through the burning fires to purify them and guard against parasitic disease.
Celtic lore gave the spirits the opportunity to enjoy a last night of freedom before the dark half of the year turned light. Mischievous fairies (doine sidhe) could travel the earth at Beltane and wreak havoc on the human world. People would decorate their houses with fresh greenery and would nail crosses made of newly cut wood to protect themselves and their livestock from these spirits.
Hawthorn trees are also associated with Beltane fairy legends, especially if they grew in the sacred triad of oak, ash and thorn. Hanging shreds of clothes or ribbons on the Hawthorns was supposed to placate any passing fairies.
http://www.celebratebeltane.co.uk/
http://www.faeryevents.com/faery-events/cosmic-faery-ball-beltane-2013/
http://beltanefiresociety.wordpress.com/tag/beltane-fire-festival-2013-tickets/
http://www.dolmengrove.co.uk/BeltaneSoR.html
Tweet