{"id":14087,"date":"2023-03-22T21:19:52","date_gmt":"2023-03-22T20:19:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/?p=14087"},"modified":"2023-07-25T09:50:02","modified_gmt":"2023-07-25T07:50:02","slug":"beltane","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/beltane\/","title":{"rendered":"Beltane: The Ancient Summer Fire Festival"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-10::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-10{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-11::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-11{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-12::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-12{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-13::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-13{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-14::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-14{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-15::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-15{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>As spring transforms into summer, the natural world undergoes many changes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These changes were celebrated as part of the traditional festival of Beltane that has existed for millenia.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Discover the origins, rituals and traditions of Beltane and how you can celebrate this long standing tradition in your own way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one of them, we might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for your support!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is Beltane?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth.jpg\" alt=\"Pregnant woman with a garland of flowers. \" class=\"wp-image-14116\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%20600'%3E%3Crect%20width='800'%20height='600'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Pregnant woman with a garland of flowers. \" class=\"wp-image-14116 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth.jpg.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-Growth-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Beltane is a celebration of growth, abundance and fertility. (Photo: alekuwka via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane is an ancient festival to mark the beginning of summer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It primarily celebrates growth, fertility and new life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The origins of this festival are rooted in paganism. Gods and Goddesses, as well as fairy folk, were believed to have great influence over the outcome of the harvest.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This festival was designed to celebrate, as well as protect against harm to ensure a fruitful yield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When is Beltane?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane is celebrated on May 1. Often the Beltane festivities start at sundown on April 30 and continue until the sun sets on May 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditionally this festival falls midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This type of festival is sometimes known as a Celtic cross quarter festival, or fire festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is one of four major annual festivals that took place throughout the Gaelic year. These festivals are as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/imbolc\/\"><strong>Imbolc<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;(February 1)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Beltane<\/strong>&nbsp;(May 1)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/lughnasadh\/\"><strong>Lughnasadh<\/strong>&nbsp;(August 1)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/samhain\/\"><strong>Samhain<\/strong>&nbsp;(November 1)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, the Beltane date is generally celebrated on the first day of May each year in the Northern Hemisphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>November 1st is the day when the ancient festival is celebrated in the Southern Hemisphere.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some areas, the Beltane May Day celebration took place when it was time to bring the cattle from their overwinter grazing areas to their summer pastures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"Hawthron trees in flower on the Hill of Uisneach, County Westmeath. \" class=\"wp-image-14092\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Hawthron trees in flower on the Hill of Uisneach, County Westmeath. \" class=\"wp-image-14092 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Hawthorn trees in flower on the Hill of Uisneach, County Westmeath. (Photo: Eileen Rattigan via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The festival was also traditionally celebrated when certain types of tree started to bloom. Hawthorn is one such tree species.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Meaning<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The origin of the word Beltane is not completely clear and different suggestions have been put forward.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Undoubtedly, fire plays a large role in this traditional festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some scholars indicated that the name may stem from the word for fire in Irish, <em>tine<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There may also be connections to the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/celtic-gods-and-celtic-goddesses\/\">Celtic God<\/a><\/strong> of healing, Belenus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These possible origins of the meaning of Beltane were first mentioned in a 10th century Irish text (S<em>anas Cormaic<\/em> or Cormac&rsquo;s Glossary of Irish words and phrases).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The importance of this festival can be seen in the fact that the Irish word for the month of&nbsp; May, is <em>Bealtaine<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Spelling<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane is sometimes written with a different spelling in English. This can be quite confusing!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some of the most frequently seen variations of Beltane include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Beltain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beltaine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beltine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beltany<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The festival is commonly referred to as the Bealtaine festival in Ireland. This Bealtaine meaning is connected with the Irish word for the month of May, <em>Bealtaine<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Scottish Gaelic, an old way to refer to the month is <em>Bealltuinn<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How do you pronounce Beltane?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane is the anglicized version of the word and is pronounced &ldquo;bel&middot;tayn&rdquo;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Irish, the word <em>Bealtaine<\/em> (May) or <em>L&aacute; Bealtaine<\/em> (the day of Beltane) can be pronounced in several different ways depending on the dialect in the different regions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pronunciation in the Ulster, Munster and Connect dialect can be found on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.teanglann.ie\/en\/fuaim\/Bealtaine\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Teanglann<\/a> Irish-English dictionary website.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Origin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane is an ancient Gaelic festival that can be traced to pagan times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was celebrated in Ireland, Scotland, the Isle of Man and some other locations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The earliest records of this celebration date back to Irish literature in S<em>anas Cormaic<\/em> or Cormac&rsquo;s Glossary (early 10th century).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The focus of this festival is fertility and productivity of the land during the summer season.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Protection against harm is another important element associated with this celebration.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <em>aos s&iacute;<\/em>,<em> <\/em>or fairy folk, were thought to have wide reaching influence on cattle, crops and other aspects of daily life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Around the time of Beltane, these magical folk were supposedly out and about more as they relocated from their winter to summer locations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many Beltane rituals focused on either protection from, or appeasing, the fairies to ensure good luck in all things for the coming season.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Symbols<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This celebration at the beginning of May marked an important time in the agricultural calendar in ancient times.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Great emphasis was placed on the protective rituals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This was to ensure that the growing season would be a favorable one.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The following are the main symbols associated with these Beltane traditions and rituals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Fire<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire.jpg\" alt=\"Beltane Fire\" class=\"wp-image-14140\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Beltane Fire\" class=\"wp-image-14140 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Bonfire.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The flames of a fire. (Photo: Kassandra2 via Depositphotos)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, fire is the most common symbol associated with Beltane (and the other three Celtic Fire festivals).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Large bonfires were lit on the eve of Beltane (April 30) to welcome the new festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of the Beltane rituals also involved fires as a form of protection and cleansing.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There may also have been connections between fire, sunlight and the longer days of summer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Water<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Water is strongly connected with the festival of Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As well as sunlight, water is also necessary for the health and productivity of people, animals and crops.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"Holy well in Dalkey, County Dubiln\" class=\"wp-image-14144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Holy well in Dalkey, County Dubiln\" class=\"wp-image-14144 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Ancient-holy-well-Dublin-Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Many holy wells are found around Ireland, like this recently rediscovered on in Dalkey, Dublin. (Photo: Agnieszka Pas via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Prayers for protection and good luck were often said at holy wells at first light on Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The cleansing and revitalizing aspects of water are important attributes of this celebration.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>May Bush<\/strong>, May Bough and Maypoles<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Decorated trees known as May Bushes or May Boughs are key symbols of this ancient festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maypoles are also a symbol of Beltane in some areas.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only were trees decorated, branches and some flowering plants were also used to decorate the exterior of houses to mark the occasion.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold.jpg\" alt=\"Close up of Marsh marigold flowers\" class=\"wp-image-14124\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Close up of Marsh marigold flowers\" class=\"wp-image-14124 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/May-Flower-Marsh-Marigold.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Marsh Marigold flowers. (Photo: rdonar via Depositphotos)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildflowersofireland.net\/plant_detail.php?id_flower=161\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Marsh Marigold<\/a>, or May Flower, is one such plant that was used as decoration that flowers at this time of year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Milk and Dairy Products<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Dairy products, especially milk, are commonly connected with Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This dietary staple was an important dietary constituent in gaelic diets.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensuring the health of the animals such as cows, goats or sheep that provide milk would have been very important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some traditions involved painting the sign of the cross with milk on a person or animal to help protect it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was also forbidden to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.museum.ie\/en-IE\/Collections-Research\/Folklife-Collections\/Folklife-Collections-List-(1)\/Religion-and-Calendar-Customs\/May-Day\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">share milk<\/a><\/strong> with anyone outside of the family on Beltane. Otherwise there would not be milk for the family during the year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Butter was also thought to be vulnerable at this time of year from the influence of the fairies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Certain traditions, such as placing a horseshoe beneath the churn developed as a way of protection.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Traditions and Rituals for Beltane<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane is associated with many different rituals and longstanding traditions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Ireland, many of these traditions were still being carried out until the early 20th century in some places.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Their popularity then waned for several decades, but there is a renewed interest in such ancient festivals again.&nbsp;<br>Discover more of the rituals in more detail in our <strong>Related Article: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/rituals-for-beltane\/\">Rituals and Traditions for Beltane<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Fires<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire.jpg\" alt=\"A roaring bonfire. \" class=\"wp-image-14096\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire.jpg.webp\" alt=\"A roaring bonfire. \" class=\"wp-image-14096 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Fire.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Beltane bonfires are very symbolic. (Image: Brilliant Eye via Shutterstock) <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Fire is a major feature of the four main Gaelic celebrations of Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhain.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A Beltane fire was considered sacred and symbolic.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It needed to be ignited solely by rubbing wood as this was considered the purest way to start the fire.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, large fires or bonfires would have been lit in prominent hilltop places to mark this celebration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fires in the homes would have been extinguished and relit with a sacred flame from the new Beltane fire.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This pagan fire tradition was a widespread practice in Ireland and beyond well into the 19th century. At some later point in time, these traditions fell out of favor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Fires and Cattle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cattle were particularly important in ancient Celtic society.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They were a measure of wealth for these pastoral people.<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As cattle were of such central importance, it is little surprise that much effort was invested in protecting them from harm and diseases.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One practice was to light two large fires and drive cattle between them, while druids chanted their protection charms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other traditions imply that the cattle would have been made to circle to the fires, or even jump over the embers to gain protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The smoke and the ashes would sometimes also be purposefully blown or rubbed over the cattle as another form of protection.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Beltane <strong>Water<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Water, as well as fire, is an important element associated with Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditions and rituals evolved around water wells.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first water drawn from a well on May 1, was thought to have special properties.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These properties vary from ensuring good health and prosperity, to making one more alluring in a sexual way.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In a similar way, the morning dew from May 1 was also said to have special powers imbued into it.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tree and Plant Decorations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom.jpg\" alt=\"A blossoming hawthorn tree\" class=\"wp-image-14149\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom.jpg.webp\" alt=\"A blossoming hawthorn tree\" class=\"wp-image-14149 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>A blossoming hawthorn tree sometimes signaled the start of Beltane. (Photo: BELINDA SULLIVAN via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane marks the beginning of the biggest vegetative growth spurt of the year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Decorations made from the white, yellow and blue <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/irish-flowers\/\"><strong>flowers<\/strong><\/a> that blossomed at this time were used to decorate houses and doorways.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These included the branches of hawthorn, rowan, hazel and other trees, as well as flowers such as primroses and gorse.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interestingly, hawthorn was not to be brought into a house as this was thought to be unlucky and brought death. (<strong>Related Article<\/strong>: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/native-irish-trees\/\">Trees of Ireland<\/a>)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Usually thorny bushes were not supposed to be cut or harmed in any way as they were thought to have special connection with the fairies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>May Bush and May Bough<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane.jpg\" alt=\"Colorful ribbons in a blossoming tree. \" class=\"wp-image-14132\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Colorful ribbons in a blossoming tree. \" class=\"wp-image-14132 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>May bushes are typically decorated with colorful ribbons like the ones shown in the image. (Photo: Bigyy via Depositphotos)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Other traditions included decorating a May Bush or May Bough.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the entire month of May in some places, ribbons, scraps of material and other colorful objects were hung from the branches of a particular tree.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similar rituals with Maypoles and the famous Maypole dance occur elsewhere in Europe to celebrate the start of summer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maypole are also very much integrated into the Wiccan celebration of Beltane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Appeasing the Fairies<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"Beltany Stone Circle in County Donegal has a long association with the festival of Beltane.\" class=\"wp-image-14120\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Beltany Stone Circle in County Donegal has a long association with the festival of Beltane.\" class=\"wp-image-14120 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltany-Stone-Circle-County-Donegal-Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Beltany Stone Circle in County Donegal has a long association with the festival of Beltane. (Photo: Michelle Holihan via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Many rituals at this time of year center around the theme of protection, especially from the <em>aos s&iacute;, <\/em>or fairy folk.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Connections between the real world and the Otherworld were thought to be closer at this time of year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fairies move to their summer areas and so were more likely to be encountered.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In order to ensure health and prosperity for the people, animals and crops, people left offerings to the fairies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rituals were also conducted to ensure that the fairies would be mollified and not provoked for the coming fruitful season.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These would include bringing the cattle to the nearby fairy fort or stone circle and sacrificing a small amount of their blood in the circle.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Ireland, these ancient stone circles date back to the Bronze Age (ca. 1500 BCE &ndash; 600 BCE) and can be found across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"Cattle resting in Grange Stone Circle, County Limerick.  \" class=\"wp-image-14104\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Cattle resting in Grange Stone Circle, County Limerick.  \" class=\"wp-image-14104 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-in-a-stone-circle-Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-10\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Cattle resting in Grange Stone Circle, County Limerick.  (Photo: Pierre Leclerc via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>They have long been associated as places of superstition.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While many other large stones have been cleared off farming land, many of these circles have survived down through the ages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Happy Beltane &ndash; Beltane Blessings<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life.jpg\" alt=\"Young rabbit with flowers in grass.\" class=\"wp-image-14108\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Young rabbit with flowers in grass.\" class=\"wp-image-14108 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Festival-New-Life.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-11\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Beltane celebrates growth and new life. (Photo: Richard Peterson via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Wishing someone a Happy Beltane is a friendly way to express your good wishes for the summer time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here you will find some inspiration in the form of Irish Blessings for Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are looking for some more, then you can read our <strong>related article: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/beltane-blessings\/\">Beltane Blessings<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>May your joys be as bright as the morning,&nbsp;<\/em><br><em>and your sorrows merely be shadows&nbsp;<\/em><br><em>that fade in the sunlight of love.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>For each petal on the shamrock<\/em><br><em>This brings a wish your way<\/em><br><em>Good health, good luck, and happiness<\/em><br><em>For today and every day.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow&nbsp;<\/em><br><em>and may trouble avoid you wherever you go.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Always remember to forget<\/em><br><em>The troubles that pass away<\/em>,<br><em>But never forget to remember<\/em><br><em>The blessings that come each day.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to celebrate Beltane?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>How to celebrate the Beltane festival depends on your own personal tastes and beliefs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can simply mark the occasion for yourself or share the joy of this celebration with a small group of friends and family.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>People of all ages and walks of life can enjoy this Pagan May Day celebration of nature.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more inspiration and creative ideas, check out our <strong>Related Article: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/how-to-celebrate-beltane\/\">How to celebrate Beltane<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Attend a Bonfire<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are lucky, there may be a Beltane bonfire in your locality.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is worth checking out in advance if one will take place.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Often these fires are lit on the eve of Beltane, April 30.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fire acts to welcome the arrival of the ancient festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If not, perhaps you could also have your own ceremony with a small fire, if it is safe to do so.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, it may also be possible to simply use a candle or two to mark the occasion.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane.jpg\" alt=\"Candles in the woods at twilight.\" class=\"wp-image-14112\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Candles in the woods at twilight.\" class=\"wp-image-14112 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Candles-for-Beltane.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-12\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Candles to celebrate the festival of Beltane. (Photo: ju_see via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Fire Festival<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In recent years, a renewed interest in celebrating Beltane has occurred.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/beltane.org\/about-beltane\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Beltane Fire Festival<\/a><\/strong> takes place on Calton Hill in Edinburgh on the eve of Beltane (April 30).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It has been organized each year since the early 1990s by the Beltane Fire Society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This modern celebration of the festival includes many different cultural influences and international performers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Festival is led by the May Queen and the Green Man.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Create an Altar<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some people opt to create an altar to celebrate this fire festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically such altars include flowers, especially white, yellow and blue ones.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Branches of hawthorn, hazel and rowan might also be a good choice, if they are available.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fire is an important symbol of Beltane. Candles are therefore an integral part of a Beltane altar.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A small bowl of water and any of the other Beltane symbols mentioned above could also be included.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower.jpg\" alt=\"Bowl of water with yellow flowers and candles. \" class=\"wp-image-14136\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Bowl of water with yellow flowers and candles. \" class=\"wp-image-14136 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Altar-Ideas-Candle-Flower.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-13\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>You can get creative and make your own altar with some of the key symobls of Beltane. (Photo: belchonock via Depositphotos)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Decorate a May Bush<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Decorating your own May Bush is one way to get involved in the festival of Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The trees typically associated with Beltane are hawthorn, rowan and hazel.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you don&rsquo;t have access to one of these trees, it is perfectly acceptable to use another type of tree.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In keeping with the spirit of the occasion, try to keep your decorations as biodegradable as possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Adding plastic objects that could accidentally cause harm to the wildlife in the area should be avoided.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Share a Beltane Blessing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane is a time to share goodwill and optimism for the future.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In nature there is abundant change at this time in the form of growth and new life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why not simply share a blessed Beltane wish with someone who may appreciate it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/beltane-blessings\/\">Beltane Blessings<\/a> <\/strong>article to find the most appropriate blessing for your purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Colors&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers.jpg\" alt=\"Four different stages of the dandelion growth cycle.\" class=\"wp-image-14100\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Four different stages of the dandelion growth cycle.\" class=\"wp-image-14100 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-Dandelion-Flowers.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-14\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Different stages of dandelions. (Photo: Gerhard Pettersson via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane colors are one that represent growth, fertility and new life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>White and yellow flowers have also been traditionally used to adorn houses and other decorative elements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These colors are typically easy to find in nature at this time of year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Given that fire is one of the main symbols of this festival, it is not surprising that red and orange are also related to this celebration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Goddess<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a lot of information online and in books about different goddesses associated with this festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately there are not a lot of strong references to support this information.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/aine-goddess\/\">&Aacute;ine the Celtic Goddess<\/a><\/strong> associated with the summer and sunlight for example, but not specifically the festival of Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other suggestions focus on the Roman Goddess Flora, the Welsh Goddess, Creiddylad and there is even mention of a Lithuanian Goddess, Giltine.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Feel free to drop us a line, if you have more information about Beltane goddesses.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Foods&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane.jpg\" alt=\"Butter, milk and bread on a table.\" class=\"wp-image-14128\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-728x546.jpg 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Butter, milk and bread on a table.\" class=\"wp-image-14128 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-15\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Milk and butter are very much a part of the Beltane celebrations. (Photo: Anna Shalam via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Dairy products are one of the main foodstuffs connected with Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Milk was used in some of the rituals, but is also a key ingredient in some of the recipes for Beltane as well.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Butter was not supposed to be made on Beltane as this was not thought to bring good luck.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if the butter was made on the eve of Beltane, the opposite was true.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Scotland oatmeal was commonly used in Beltane celebrations, most often in the form of a Beltane bannock or <em>bannoch Bealltainn.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Recipes&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Having a Beltane feast is becoming a popular way to celebrate Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many different recipes to choose from including more traditional meals, as well as some more modern dishes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Traditional Recipes for Beltane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Caudle is a Scottish traditional recipe typically eaten at Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The ingredients of this dish include oatmeal, milk, butter and eggs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It resembles a type of eggnog or gruel and is eaten with a spoon from a caudle cup.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane bannock or oatmeal cakes are another very traditional food that is eaten at this time of year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Discover more about Beltane<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Would you like to learn more about this ancient pagan holiday?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We have other useful resources on this website that will help you discover more about Beltane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These articles explore the history, meanings, origins and traditions that have evolved around the festival of Beltane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/rituals-for-beltane\/\">Beltane Rituals<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/beltane-blessings\/\">Beltane Blessings<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/how-to-celebrate-beltane\/\">How to celebrate Beltane<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As spring transforms into summer, the natural world undergoes many changes.&nbsp; These changes were celebrated as part of the traditional festival of Beltane that has existed for millenia.&nbsp; Discover the &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":14116,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false},"categories":[145,90],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v21.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Beltane: The Ancient Summer Fire Festival<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Beltane is an ancient Gaelic festival to welcome the summer. 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