{"id":14196,"date":"2023-03-24T09:31:51","date_gmt":"2023-03-24T08:31:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/?p=14196"},"modified":"2023-04-06T14:44:12","modified_gmt":"2023-04-06T12:44:12","slug":"rituals-for-beltane","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/rituals-for-beltane\/","title":{"rendered":"Rituals for Beltane: Fire, Flowers and Fairies"},"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;}<\/style>\n<p>Each year, the ancient festival of Beltane is celebrated.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In recent times, there has been a renewed interest in this festival on an international level.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Discover all about this festival from its ancient origins to its unique rituals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Learn how you can celebrate Beltane in your own way as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/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).<\/em>&nbsp;<em>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-nature.jpg\" alt=\"Early summer field with young leaves on trees.\" class=\"wp-image-14230\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-festival-Growth-nature.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-festival-Growth-nature-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-festival-Growth-nature-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-festival-Growth-nature-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=\"Early summer field with young leaves on trees.\" class=\"wp-image-14230 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-nature.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-festival-Growth-nature.jpg.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-festival-Growth-nature.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-festival-Growth-nature-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-festival-Growth-nature-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Beltane-festival-Growth-nature-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Nature starts to flourish around the time of Beltane. (Photo: LeManna via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane is a cross quarter festival that can trace its roots back to one of the main pagan holidays of the year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This tradition evolved at a time when the Gods and Goddesses were believed to influence the daily lives of the people such as the weather, crops, fertility and new life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are four Gaelic cross quarter festivals spread across the seasons, the others being:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/imbolc\/\">Imbolc<\/a><\/strong> (Spring Festival associated with the Goddess Brigid on February 1)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lughnasadh<\/strong> (Harvest Festival on August 1)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Samhain<\/strong> (Winter Festival with connections with the dead on November 1)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The Beltane festival marks the changing of the seasons from spring to summer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically it is a time of positivity, growth, fertility and abundance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Protection from harm, especially from the spirits of the Otherworld feature frequently in the rituals associated with this festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related Articles: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/beltane\/\">Beltane<\/a> <\/strong>and<strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/celtic-gods-and-celtic-goddesses\/\">Celtic Gods and Goddesses<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When is Beltane celebrated?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane is celebrated on May 1. Some of the celebrations typically start on the Eve of Beltane (April 30) and last until sundown on May 1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This marks roughly the halfway point between the Spring Equinox and the Summer solstice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The exact midpoint is the day when some Neopagans celebrate Beltane.&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\/Hawthorn-at-Hill-of-Uisneach-Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"Hawthorn was considered to be a very special tree type. It was sometimes found near sacred sites such as here at the HIll of Uisneach in 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=\"Hawthorn was considered to be a very special tree type. It was sometimes found near sacred sites such as here at the HIll of Uisneach in 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 was considered to be a very special tree type. It was sometimes found near sacred sites such as here at the HIll of Uisneach in County Westmeath. (Photo: Eileen Rattigan via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This can vary within a few days of May 1 in the Northern Hemisphere and a few days of&nbsp;November 1 in the Southern Hemisphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some places, the Beltane date coincided with when the cattle were moved to their summer grazing areas.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first blossoms on the hawthorn were also occasionally used to determine when the Beltane pagan holiday should start.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is the origin of Beltane?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Summer was, and continues to be, the most important period in the agricultural year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane developed as a celebration for this vitally important season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It involved rituals of protection to ensure a fertile year with a good harvest. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The oldest known reference to Beltane was written in the ancient Irish texts <em>Sanas Cormaic<\/em> or Cormac&rsquo;s Glossary.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This text dates back to the 10th century.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cormac, who was a Bishop of Cashel suggested that the meaning of Beltane may have come from the Irish word for fire, which is <em>tine<\/em>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane God and Beltane Goddess<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Celtic God Belenos, or Belenus in Irish, may have also been somewhat connected to this festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He is sometimes referred to as Bel, the &ldquo;Bright One&rdquo;, and may have contributed to the Beltane meaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is difficult to find clear connections to a Beltane Goddess.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a lot of information and different Goddesses mentioned online and elsewhere, but it is challenging to find reliable evidence to support this.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Feel free to drop us a line, if you have more information about deities linked to Beltane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where did Beltane Originate?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It is widely known that Beltane was celebrated in Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some aspects of the festival, such as the welcoming of the summer can also be seen in other traditional May Day celebrations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These take place throughout Europe around May 1.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Rituals for Beltane<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a great diversity of Beltane rituals that have evolved over time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many are particularly old, especially those with connections to fire.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Down through the ages, some other influences have helped to shape and transform the rituals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the 18th and 19th century, in particular, a greater influence from Christianity crept into this originally pagan fire festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The month of May, which is known as <em>Bealtaine<\/em> in Irish (<em>Bealltuinn<\/em> in old Scottish Gaelic), became more associated with the Virgin Mary.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, while once a child May Queen led the May Day procession, this became a status of the Virgin Mary in some places in Ireland in more recent history.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane 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=\"The flames of a 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=\"The flames of a 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>Rituals involving fire are very central to Beltane. (Photo: Kassandra2 via Depositphotos)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Fire is an integral part of the Beltane pagan festival, as well as the other cross quarter or fire festivals as they are also known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was believed to have symbolic meaning, help ward off harm and was connected with the changing of the seasons.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the Northern Hemisphere, Beltane marks the beginning of summer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a time associated with the sun, more sunlight, longer days and better weather.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fire was used to help represent these changes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically large bonfires were lit on the eve of Beltane (April 30).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prominent locations such as hiltops were usually selected for such fires.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In ancient times, the fires in the houses would have been extinguished and lit using the sacred flame from the main Beltane fire.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other traditions for around the Beltane fire also developed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, it was thought to be bad luck to light a fire in your home until you saw smoke rising from the chimney of your neighbor first.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The ashes from the Beltane fire would also be used as a form of protection.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These blessed Beltane ashes would have been spread on peoples skin or the hides of animals to help ensure that no harm would befall them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Beltane Bonfires for Cattle<\/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\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual.jpg\" alt=\"A cow in a field looking straight at the camera.\" class=\"wp-image-14201\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual-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\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual.jpg.webp\" alt=\"A cow in a field looking straight at the camera.\" class=\"wp-image-14201 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Cattle-protection-beltane-ritual-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-protection-beltane-ritual.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Cattle were particularly important to the ancient Celts and they would perform rituals for their protection. (Photo: Simone Celeste via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of the rituals that developed around the festival of Beltane are deeply connected with the theme of protection.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cattle were an extremely precious commodity to the pastoral Celtic people.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Around this time of year, cattle were traditionally taken from their winter grazing areas to the summer pastures around this time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To ensure they were protected from disease and harm, a ritual bonfire ceremony would have been held.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Druids would say special chants as the cattle were driven between two large bonfires.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Variations of this ceremony included the cattle encircling one fire or even being made to jump over the embers in order to be protected from harm.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Older traditions may have involved sacrifices on the fires, but this is not conclusive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>May Tree or May Bush<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A long standing tradition associated with celebrating Beltane is the decoration of trees.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Generally, a May Tree or May Bush was a selected tree located close to a house.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In many cases, a branch from a hawthorn tree would have been used, rather than an actual tree or bush.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hawthorn is a tree surrounded by superstition and it would have usually been considered bad luck to cut a branch from the tree.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Related Article: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/native-irish-trees\/\">Trees of Ireland<\/a><\/strong><\/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\/Hawthron-Tree-in-Bloom.jpg\" alt=\"A flowering 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 flowering 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-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Hawthorn trees often flower around Beltane. (Photo: BELINDA SULLIVAN via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There appears to have been some exceptions around Beltane though.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The decorations on the tree would have been a collection of whatever was available in the home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically this would have been scraps of material, ribbons and flowers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other more unusual objects were also used as decorations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These could have been seashells, the remains of painted eggshells from Easter or even hurling balls, known as sliotars.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>(These hard, leather balls are used in the traditional Irish game of Hurling. The hurling season starts again at this time of year.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Wexford in Ireland, there has been a recent attempt to try to revive this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/TheWexfordMayBushFestival\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">long standing tradition<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Smaller May Bushes would have been carried from house to house by the local children to celebrate the Beltane day festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These would have consisted of a decorated tree branch.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This act was to help bring the summer to all of the houses in the community.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>May Bough&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Larger decorated trees would have been more centrally located in the town, village or city.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These would have been known as May Boughs and were sometimes paraded through the town as part of a procession.&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\/Decorated-May-Bush-Beltane.jpg\" alt=\"A tree decoated with colorful streamers.\" 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=\"A tree decoated with colorful streamers.\" 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-6\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>May Boughs were often decorated with colorful ribbons, paper or material. (Photo: Bigyy via Depositphotos)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Maypoles<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The tradition of the Maypole is common throughout Europe at this time of year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some locations in Ireland such as Dublin, Kilkenny and Kildare, Maypoles also existed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These are more likely a relatively recent introduction to Ireland.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plantation settlers during the 16th and 17th century may have brought this tradition with them from England and Scotland.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maypole dances and much merriment took place at these locations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is even some evidence to suggest that there may have been <a href=\"https:\/\/thefadingyear.wordpress.com\/2017\/04\/26\/the-maypole-tradition-in-ireland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">competitions to climb Maypoles<\/a> in some area.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The use of Maypoles to celebrate Beltane May Day is a particularly strong tradition for Wiccans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This festival is deeply connected with fertility in the Wicca religion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gathering of May Flowers<\/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\/Gathering-flowers-Beltane.jpg\" alt=\"Gathered dandelion heads in a basket.\" class=\"wp-image-14205\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Gathering-flowers-Beltane.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Gathering-flowers-Beltane-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Gathering-flowers-Beltane-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Gathering-flowers-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\/Gathering-flowers-Beltane.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Gathered dandelion heads in a basket.\" class=\"wp-image-14205 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Gathering-flowers-Beltane.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Gathering-flowers-Beltane-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Gathering-flowers-Beltane-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Gathering-flowers-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\/Gathering-flowers-Beltane.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Children often collected wild flowers on the eve of Beltane to decorate the local houses with. (Photo: Natalivideo via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Gathering flowers is an old tradition connected with Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is well connected with the idea of growth and abundance at this time of year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another idea behind this practice is to ward away the fairies and harm from the Otherworld.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The beginning of summer the fairies, or aos s&iacute;, changed to their summer locations and became more likely to be out and get up to mischief.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By decorating the home with flowers, this was thought to protect against any unwanted attention from the fairies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Children would typically have gathered the yellow, white and blue flowers that typically grow during this season on the eve of Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These would likely have included marigolds, primroses, daisies and bluebells among other plant species.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<strong>Related Article: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/irish-flowers\/\">Wildflowers of Ireland<\/a><\/strong><\/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=\"Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) is also known as the Beltane Flower. \" 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=\"Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) is also known as the Beltane Flower. \" 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-8\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) is also known as the Beltane Flower. (Photo: rdonar via Depositphotos)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, the Marsh Marigold (<em>Caltha palustris<\/em>) is known as the Beltane Flower, or May Flower in some areas of Ireland and Scotland. It flowers around this time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Blossoms would have been spread across the family threshold, left on the windowsills and the entrances to farm buildings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Children would have also left flowers at the doors and on the windowsills of their neighbors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The branches of trees, such as Rowan and Hazel, would also have been used to ward off any bad spirits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Branches would have been placed above the doorway, or sometimes around the boundary of fields with animals and crops.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This was to ensure their protection from the fairy folk.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane was also an important time to gather herbs and healing plants.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plants, including nettles, collected at this time were thought to be imbued with heightened healing powers and good luck.&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>As well as fire, water is another vital element of the Beltane festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Water collected from the well early on May 1 was thought to be especially potent and could help ward away bad spirits.&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\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"Water flowing in a small river.\" class=\"wp-image-14226\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-Ireland.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-Ireland-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-Ireland-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-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\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Water flowing in a small river.\" class=\"wp-image-14226 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-Ireland.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-Ireland-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-Ireland-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-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\/A-flowing-Stream-Northern-Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Water collected early on May 1 was thought to bring good luck. (Photo: Chris E Mitchell via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>However, it was not considered safe to leave the house during darkness at this time due to the heightened activity of the fairies. (The same precaution applied to the full moon.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So the water needed to be gathered at first light.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is why there was a tradition of trying to get the first water from the well on Beltane if the well was shared with a number of families.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Morning Dew<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Beltane spiritual meaning of water is possibly connected with life, fertility and birth.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interestingly, the fresh morning dew found outside on the morning of Beltane was thought to help preserve eternal youth.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Young women in particular were known for gathering the first dew on this day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They would rub it to their faces in the hope of enhancing their beauty and looks and perhaps chances of finding love and marrying.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some tales also tell of men collecting the Beltane dew. It is said to boost their ability to grow beards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Selecting a May Queen<\/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\/Queen-of-the-May-Beltane.jpg\" alt=\"A young girl was selected to be the May Queen or Queen of the May. \" class=\"wp-image-14197\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Queen-of-the-May-Beltane.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Queen-of-the-May-Beltane-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Queen-of-the-May-Beltane-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Queen-of-the-May-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\/Queen-of-the-May-Beltane.jpg.webp\" alt=\"A young girl was selected to be the May Queen or Queen of the May. \" class=\"wp-image-14197 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Queen-of-the-May-Beltane.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Queen-of-the-May-Beltane-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Queen-of-the-May-Beltane-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Queen-of-the-May-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\/Queen-of-the-May-Beltane.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-10\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>A young girl was selected to be the May Queen, or Queen of the May. (Photo: alexkich via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The first of May was the day that a May Queen was selected from the locality.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This May Queen would be a young girl who would signify the innocence and purity associated with this ancient traditional festival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She would have worn flowers and garlands to mark the occasion.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One role she may have had was to spread flowers and lead a parade through the streets in front of the May Bough procession.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the location, some May Kings, as well as May Babies were selected for this occasion.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Protecting the Milk and Butter<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Milk and butter were thought to be very vulnerable at this time and needed protection from the influence of the fairies or what was known as the &ldquo;Evil Eye&rdquo;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Evil Eye could probably be best described as feelings of envy or ill wishes from another person.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If they didn&rsquo;t like you or the situation, they would give you the &ldquo;Evil Eye&rdquo; or a particular &ldquo;look&rdquo;, that could ruin your dairy produce.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One tradition evolved that it was not allowed to share milk or butter (or coal for that matter) with your neighbors on May Day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those that did, they would have to endure a tough year without milk or butter or warmth from the coals of a fire.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Efforts to protect the milk would have included tying straw around the necks of the cattle so that they couldn&rsquo;t be taken away by the fairies.&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\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-Rituals.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-14218\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-Rituals.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-Rituals-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-Rituals-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-Rituals-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-Rituals.jpg.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-14218 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-Rituals.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-Rituals-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-Rituals-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Milk-and-Butter-Beltane-Rituals-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-Rituals.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-11\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Beltane foods were often made with milk and butter. (Photo: belchonock via Depositphotos)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Primroses would also have been tied to the tails of cattle, as they were thought to have a similar deterring effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cattle would also have been taken to fairy forts where blood sacrifices would have been carried out.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This blood may have been burned or spread on the soil in the fairy ring or stone circle.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is thought that this practice was a Beltane protection ritual or else a Beltane fertility ritual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Butter should never be made on May Day, as this was thought to bring bad luck.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, the butter made on the eve of May Day was supposed to be lucky according to some.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Very often butter was shaped with the form of a butter print. These prints came in all sorts of different patterns, often involving animals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some of the butter prints were also in the shape of an eye. It is thought that this shape would help protect the butter from any bad influences.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other objects that were considered lucky, such as horseshoes were also placed in the bottom of the butter churn.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The intended purpose of this was to protect the butter from any harm<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to celebrate Beltane?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many different ways to celebrate this changing of the seasons festival.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the aspects of Beltane that are most important to you, you could choose to include them in your own celebration of this feast.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><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>Beltane Blessings<\/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\/A-Beltane-Blessing.jpg\" alt=\"A Beltane Blessing with with a dandelion seed head\" class=\"wp-image-14222\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-Beltane-Blessing.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-Beltane-Blessing-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-Beltane-Blessing-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-Beltane-Blessing-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\/A-Beltane-Blessing.jpg.webp\" alt=\"A Beltane Blessing with with a dandelion seed head\" class=\"wp-image-14222 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-Beltane-Blessing.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-Beltane-Blessing-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-Beltane-Blessing-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-Beltane-Blessing-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/A-Beltane-Blessing.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-12\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Beltane Blessings focus on growth, new life and new beginnings. (Photo: Dawid Zawila via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Some ideas include wishing friends and family a Happy Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are different <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/beltane-blessings\/\"><strong>Beltane Blessings<\/strong><\/a> that are highly suitable for this occasion.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They aim to wish someone goodwill, growth, prosperity and also optimism in the face of the unknown.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is one of our favorite Beltane Blessings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>May peace and plenty bless your world<\/em><em><br><\/em><em>with joy that long endures.<\/em><em><br><\/em><em>May all life&rsquo;s passing seasons<\/em><em><br><\/em><em>bring the best to you and yours!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a wider selection of Beltane Blessings, please read the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/beltane-blessings\/\">Beltane Blessings<\/a><\/strong> article.&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>One of the most simple ways to mark the occasion of Beltane is to create an altar.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This could include some of the Beltane Symbols, such as fire, water, growth in the form of flowers for example.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It can be made in your own home or perhaps outside in a peaceful space that is suitable for quiet reflection.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beltane candle rituals can be used to replace bonfires, if there is not one taking place in your locality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gather Flowers<\/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\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration.jpg\" alt=\"Gather your own wild flowers to decorate your own home. \" class=\"wp-image-14209\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration-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\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Gather your own wild flowers to decorate your own home. \" class=\"wp-image-14209 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration-728x546.jpg.webp 728w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Yellow-flowers-Beltane-decoration.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-13\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Gather your own wild flowers to decorate your own home. (Photo: Nataliia Melnychuk via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Fresh wild flowers typically grow in abundance at this time of year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have the opportunity to gather some flowers yourself, this can be a nice way to reconnect to nature and the earth at this time of year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Placing the blossoms on your windowsill or by the main door would be a simple way to celebrate Beltane May Day in your own home.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Perhaps you bring some flowers to a friend, family member or neighbor to share the Beltane celebrations with others.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of the Beltane traditions are not very well known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Feel free to share them with those that might be interested in the origins of this pagan May Day celebration!&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is more fun to take part in the festival when you are not a solitary practitioner!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Decorate the Outside of your House<\/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\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-Beltane.jpg\" alt=\"Rowan, or Mountain Ash, was often used to protect again the fairies. \" class=\"wp-image-14213\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-Beltane.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-Beltane-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-Beltane-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-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\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-Beltane.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Rowan, or Mountain Ash, was often used to protect again the fairies. \" class=\"wp-image-14213 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-Beltane.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-Beltane-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-Beltane-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-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\/Rowan-mountain-Ash-Beltane.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-14\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Rowan, or Mountain Ash, was often used to protect again the fairies. (Photo: dabjola via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditionally, decorating the exterior of a house was also associated with Beltane.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This could be done with flowers typical of the late spring and summer time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tree branches would also have been incorporated into the decorations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The origin of this practice stems from the idea that fairies and magical folk would not cross a boundary with flowers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, the fairies would overlook the house and not wish any harm or bad luck on the family inside.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you looking for some more ideas and inspiration about how to mark the occasion of May Day Beltane, including Beltane foods to eat?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/how-to-celebrate-beltane\/\">How to celebrate Beltane<\/a><\/strong> article<strong>.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Each year, the ancient festival of Beltane is celebrated.&nbsp; In recent times, there has been a renewed interest in this festival on an international level.&nbsp; Discover all about this festival &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":14205,"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 v21.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Beltane Rituals: Fire Festival of Summer Guide<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Rituals for Beltane: Fire, Flowers, Fairies, Maypoles &amp; more! 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