Beltane

Beltane or May Day is a wonderful tradition celebrated usually on the 1st of May to celebrate fertility. It is a cross-quarter day, marking the midpoint in the Sun's progress between the spring equinox and summer solstice. As of course the Earth is covered with flowers and life, union with the Land focus.

On an interesting note, May Day could be considered the original "one night stand". To go "A-Maying" was when young men and women would spend the night in the woods together, this included allowing couples this one night to dally with others.

Beltane is often when couples declare their intentions to handfast or marry at Summer Solstice. In addition to facilitating human partnerships, these rites also supposedly insured blessings of the fields, herds, home.

Common Rituals of May Day are:

Maypole, Hobby Horse, Green Man, Swordsmen, Dancing


From May Day Celebration


In Shepherdstown there is a huge parade and rituals are held. Here is the beginning of the parade lead by Queen of May and the Green Man

From May Day Celebration


The Maidens and their May Bowers dancing in the street.

From May Day Celebration


A dance troupe.

From May Day Celebration


The Morris Dancers


From May Day Celebration


Plant Trees!


From May Day Celebration


Real Men Wear Kilts!


From May Day Celebration


There is a huge crowd for the parade, it is great to see so many in the community present.


From May Day Celebration


Awaiting the beginning of rituals.

From May Day Celebration




From May Day Celebration


May Pole (weaved)


From May Day Celebration


Children playing in the stream.


From May Day Celebration


Need I say more?

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