
Beltane
Beltane marks the arrival of summer—a time of fire, fertility, and renewal. Its roots run deep in Celtic tradition, particularly in Ireland and Scotland. The name comes from the Old Irish Bealtaine, meaning "bright fire."
Celebrated from the night of April 30th into May 1st, Beltane was a festival where bonfires blazed across hillsides, driving away evil and inviting good fortune for the months ahead. Communities gathered to feast, dance, and honor the turning of the season.
In the Middle Ages, echoes of Beltane spread throughout Western Europe. In Occitan regions, troubadours sang of love and nature, while rural villages lit flames to protect their fields and herds. Over time, some of these customs intertwined with May Day traditions—but the heart of Beltane remained: joy, connection, and the powerful bond between people and the land.
Though its meaning has evolved, Beltane still burns bright as a celebration of life and light.