Bealtaine is a Celtic festival that is held on May 1, which is the midway mark between the spring equinox and the summer solstice. It is considered the Gaelic May Day and marks the start of summer. The name “Bealtaine” is thought to come from Belenus, the Celtic god of healing and the sun. Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Mann celebrate this Celtic festival. Bealtaine is similar to the Welsh festival of Calan Mai, which is held on May 1 each year as well.
This date has several important events and rituals associated
with it. On this day, cattle are moved to their summer pastures. Rituals were
performed to protect people, cattle, and crops as well as to encourage growth. Homes
and livestock were decorated with yellow May flowers as they were said to evoke
fire. Rituals were also performed to promote fertility. Like in many cultures,
the Celts danced around a Maypole to promote fertility.
On this day, bonfires with protective properties were lit,
and people and their cattle would walk around or between them. Sometimes, the
cattle would even jump over the bonfires. Any
household fires would be extinguished and relit using flames from the bonfire
on the Hill of Ward.
In some parts of Ireland, May Bushes were made. These bushes
are either a thorn bush or branch that is decorated with flowers, ribbons, and
other decorations. Bealtaine dew is said to help preserve youthfulness and bring
beauty. Holy wells were visited on Bealtaine.
While the festival celebrations have largely died out since
the 1900s, some parts of Ireland and Scotland still have events to mark the
day. Recently, the Hill of Uisneach, which is traditionally associated
with Bealtainne, revived its ancient tradition and now hosts a fire festival
for Bealtainne. Edinburgh’s fire
festival to celebrate Bealtaine is one of the most famous celebrations. It
draws people from around the world to mark the occasion.
Related Articles:
-Tartan Day: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/04/tartan-day.html
-Boxing Day/St. Stephen's Day: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2024/12/boxing-dayst-stephens-day.html
-Samhain: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2024/11/samhain.html