1 MAY – Beltaine – pronounced Bal – te - na
Beltane is the third of the four fire festivals. Beltaine literally means ‘bright’ or ‘brilliant fire’ and relates to the bonfires which a presiding Druid would light in honour of the Goddess.
Beltaine heralded the arrival of the Summer in its full glory. Bonfires were created from the nine sacred woods in honour of the Summer: Birch, Rowan, Ash, Alder, Willow, Hawthorn, Oak, Holly and Hazel. A celebration of joy and sensuality. It was customary for handfastings when couples would be joined for a year and a day, to take place at Beltaine.
Beltane is the third of the four fire festivals. Beltaine literally means ‘bright’ or ‘brilliant fire’ and relates to the bonfires which a presiding Druid would light in honour of the Goddess.
Beltaine heralded the arrival of the Summer in its full glory. Bonfires were created from the nine sacred woods in honour of the Summer: Birch, Rowan, Ash, Alder, Willow, Hawthorn, Oak, Holly and Hazel. A celebration of joy and sensuality. It was customary for handfastings when couples would be joined for a year and a day, to take place at Beltaine.