Beltane is a Celtic celebration which marks the beginning of Summer. Unlike agricultural societies, the Celts were a pastoral people and only observed two seasons – summer  and winter. 

Traditionally celebrated on May 1, Beltane marks the midway between the spring equinox and summer solstice, which means the astronomical date for Beltane this year in the northern hemisphere passes early Saturday, May 6th, near the time of the full moon.

Beltane is a time to perform rituals promoting fertility and fecundity. Large bonfires were lit at a sacred site to symbolically purify, revitalize and bless nearby homesteads and herds. Flowers such as primrose, roan, hawthorn, horse, hazel and marigold adorned doorways and windows as bouquets, garlands or crosses. 

Today, Beltane is a reminder that self-acceptance is vital to developing healthy, flourishing relationships.