#firefestival

Latha Bealltainn! Happy Belatne, Folx

The Northern Hemisphere is celebrating the return of Spring, light, and renewal.

Keep those homefires burning.

Imbolc: A Historic Tradition

History Imbolc or also called Oimelc, beginning on January 31st and ending on February 2nd, was the time when the calves, lambs and human babies were born. It was called the birthing season or the end of the dead season. It is considered the beginning of the lighter part of the year, when the sun gets higher in the sky. the word “Oimelc” translates from Gaelic to “ewe’s milk” and Imbolc…

Pagan Pages: Ways to Celebrate Beltane

I will be making a post with the background and reasons for Beltane, or May Day, next week. However, I wanted to share with everyone a couple of ways to celebrate the upcoming fire festival.

Flower Crowns: Typically made from daisies, flower garlands and crowns are a traditional way to honor the solstice. Wear them as you celebrate Mother Earth by dancing outside, taking a stroll, or simply sitting outside surrounded by nature.

Maypole: Traditionally, the Celtics celebrate Beltane by erecting a tall pole adorned with flowers and paintings, with long ribbons attached to the top of it. Patrons hold onto each of the ribbons while dancing around the pole, wrapping the ribbon around as the dance progressed.

Altar: Decorate your altar with earthy tones and colors, a candle, and something representing fertility. This is the time that we honor the Gods and Goddesses of fertility, fruitfulness, and abundance. Try to incorporate something masculine for the God(s) and something feminine to represent the Goddess(es). You can also include small offerings to the fairies and/or house elves.

Light a fire: Beltane is one of four fire festivals represented by the Wheel of the Year. While most light a bonfire outside and cleanse themselves in the smoke, that isn’t practical for practitioners that live in the middle of a city or in an apartment. Try to incorporate fire the best and safest way that you can, whether it’s lighting some candles, light a fire in a small fireproof container, or using battery powered candles.

Beltane is all about fertility and new life. For couples struggling to conceive, it is suggested that they try on the night of April 30. Sexual energy is powerful during this time, and many pagans partake in sexual rituals on Beltane. As always, make sure your partner knows and is willing to be a part of it. Never do sexual work with an unwilling/unknowing partner.

These are just a handful of possible ways you can celebrate this solstice. Do your own research and decide what works best for you. How do you plan on celebrating?

Photography by: @solovvitch Pagan Pages by: @solovvitch