Beltane: May Poles and Dances

May Poles and Dances The Maypole is a symbol with many meanings. Often celebrated as and considered a phallic symbol, it also resembles the garlanded trees associated with moon goddesses. In the Phrygian rites of Attis, celebrated around the spring equinox, a fir tree was chopped down, wrapped in a shroud and placed in a … Continue reading Beltane: May Poles and Dances

Beltane: Bringing in the May

In old England, the young people went out into the woods on May Day Eve and stayed all night, returning in the morning, laden with flowers and green branches. The Puritan writer, Philip Stubbes, has an interesting way of explaining the nature of the sacred rites which took place in the woods: I have heard … Continue reading Beltane: Bringing in the May

Spreading joy, fun, and games with the Fairfaw — Beltane Fire Society

Some of us have forgotten how to have fun, so the Fairfaw have come to remind us how to play at Beltane Fire Festival. via Spreading joy, fun, and games with the Fairfaw — Beltane Fire Society

Overcoming obstacles with the Whites — Beltane Fire Society

Fierce protectors of the May Queen and the backbone of the festival, the Whites guard the procession at Beltane Fire Festival. via Overcoming obstacles with the Whites — Beltane Fire Society