Ahhh- the enchanting realm of May Day! A time when flowers bloom in riotous colors, the air vibrates with flickers of summer, ancient traditions stir beneath the surface of the earth, and the promise of new beginnings pulsates around us. From April 28 through May 5, we stand on the threshold between spring's awakening and summer's embrace, Beltane, the spirited celebration also known as May Day. Let us embark on a journey through time to uncover the ancient origins and cultural tapestry of Beltane, from the blazing bonfires of the Celts to the floral splendor of English Flora Day, this magical time of year has a beautifully rich history and diverse multitude of ancient traditions.
Cross-culturally, the spring season is a time to celebrate renewal, rebirth, fertility, abundance, and the coming summer. šš£š°Ostara, also known as "Äostre" and later on "Easter",Ā has originsĀ tied to the Ancient Germanic Goddess and Astarte.Ā As one of the eight Neopagan Sabbats (aka "celebrations") comprising the Pagan Wheel of the Year,Ā this Sabbat commemorates the renewal of Spring following the desolation of winter. Ostara/Ā ÄostreĀ embodies the fresh vitality of the spring season, depicted as the youthful Maiden of Spring...
Beltane comes from Proto-Indo-EuropeanĀ bhel-Ā meaning āto shine, flash, burnā and also the name of the Celtic Solar God Bel, andĀ tenĀ related to āhot.ā And things definitely heat up with Beltane, and Iām not just talking about the weather ;). Originally Beltane was the Celtic holiday honoring the mating of Green Man and the Earth goddess that marked the beginning of summer. This sacred union symbolized the necessary act to bring about Earthās fertility.