The magical hand of time has nudged our clocks forward, coaxing forth the lighter nights once more, we have said farewell to the embrace of Winter and welcomed in the breath of Spring. As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of May, we want to turn your focus towards the enchanting festival of Beltane! The first of May marks the midway point between the Vernal Equinox and Summer Solstice, a time of potent magic and vibrant energies.
The Celts revered Bel, a deity whose essence infuses Beltane with its fiery spirit, hence its name 'the fire of Bel'. Fire takes centre stage in these festivities, believed to hold protective powers. People circled bonfires, and leapt over flames, seeking blessings of abundance and fertility for themselves and their livestock.
In every heart in every home, flames danced and ignited from the sacred bonfires. Every doorway was adorned in blossoms, a testament to nature's bounty and the promise of renewal. Amidst the flickering glow and the echoes of feasting, Beltane was a time of joyous celebration and gratitude for the cycle of life's bounty.
Symbols of Beltane :
Colours: White, Dark Green, Red
Foods: Dairy Foods, Honey, Oats, Mead, Lamb
Stones: Sapphire, Bloodstone, Emerald, Orange Carnelian, Rose Quartz
Symbols: Goat, Honeybee, Crown, Fairies, Pegasus, Rabbits, Flower Crown, Maypole, Basket
Flowers & Plants: Primrose, Lilac, Hawthorn, Birch, Rosemary, Ivy, Woodruff, Rowan, Violet, Alfalfa, Cedar, Peppermint, Lavender
Ways to Participate :
Hold a bonfire for family and friends:
Gather your loved ones around a crackling bonfire, a symbol of warmth and community. Share stories, laughter, and perhaps even some traditional Beltane songs as you bask in the glow of the flames. Don't forget to offer gratitude to the fire for its protective presence and the blessings it bestow.
Take action on a project you’ve been working on:
Beltane is a time of growth and manifestation. Channel the vibrant energy of the season by dedicating time to a project close to your heart. Let Beltane be the catalyst for turning your dreams into reality.
Set aside time for self-care:
Honour yourself during this sacred time by indulging in acts of self-care. Treat yourself to a sumptuous meal, immerse yourself in uplifting music, or fill your space with soothing aromas.
Decorate a tree with colourful ribbons:
Find a sturdy tree in your garden or a nearby green space and adorn it with vibrant ribbons. As you tie each ribbon, infuse it with your wishes and intentions for the coming year.
Make flower crowns:
Embrace the beauty of nature by crafting flower crowns with fresh blooms. Gather a variety of flowers and foliage that resonate with you, and weave them into a crown to adorn your head.
Dress in green:
Symbolizing the flourishing vitality of the season, dressing in green is a wonderful way to honour the earth's abundance. Choose clothing in shades of green to align yourself with the verdant energy of nature.
Decorate your home with yellow flowers:
Adorn your home with cheerful yellow flowers, symbolizing the sun's warmth and vitality. Create wreaths, bouquets, or garlands to infuse your space with the energy of Beltane's renewal and optimism. Let the sight and scent of these blossoms fill your home with joy and positivity as you welcome the season of growth and abundance.