Beltrane

Beltrane is the Druidic festival celebrating the gifts and blessings of the goddess Beltrae and it is celebrated during the spring equinox on March 20, wherein the lambs are brought forth, gardens and fields are planted and growing season begins. Beltane is renowned for flowers, food, and drink. There is dancing, singing, poetry competitions, races and games, and the naming of children born over the winter. Celebrations are typically held in fields and meadows where crowds can gather and games, races and tests of skills can be enjoyed. Food is either prepared onsite or is packed in picnic-style. Druid Priests and Priestesses provide a blessing in the morning, prayers over the meals, the traditional naming ceremony for children yet to be named to the community and a closing benediction when the party is over.

Participants

Beltrane is a celebration for and of the entire community. Even in towns and regions where Druidism is not the predominant religion, this celebration is very popular.

A story-telling contest during a Beltrane celebration.