Happy Beltane, witches!
I know, this holiday appears a lot in pop culture these days, that some of you may not know it's an actual holiday represented in the Witch's Year. You are probably more familiar with this day than you think. Beltane is also called May Day and culture's around the world have been celebrating it for centuries.
What is Beltane?
Beltane is a festival all about fertility, the anticipation of summer, and welcoming in crops. This time of year has traditionally been celebrated with fire. In fact, the word Beltane means "bright bonfire". Traditionally, bonfires were lit to bring fertility to crops, homes, and livestock. People then danced around the fire clockwise for good luck, protection, health, and abundance. Some traditions even called for individuals and their livestock to leap over the fire for the same purpose.
This is a time when the veil is thin (much like Halloween). In many traditions, fairies are considered to be active during this holiday. And be mindful, that not all of these spirits have your best intentions in mind! One of my fave folklorists, Piper, can tell you more here.
How to celebrate
In modern times, witches often gather together and jump over brooms, run around the maypole, or even bring in some flesh flowers to the home.
This is a great time to clean up your alter, if you have one, and to get outside and enjoy the lush green that is starting to peek out. Consider decorating your altar with fresh flowers, herbs, and plants in representation of this fertile season.
It is also a great time to smudge your home and crystals.
Magic is powerful today so it's a great day to cast spells of abundance, manifestation, and love!
How will you be celebrating?