Beltaine, May 1
Beltaine, also called May Day by many Christians. This Sabbat celebrates the fertility and union of the Horned God and
the Goddess. At this time, life is renewing itself. Birds and animals are mating. In the fields, newly planted seeds are beginning
to grow. Great fires are lit honoring the fertility God Belenos. Some leap the fires to show the exuberance of the season.
A Maypole is erected and bright ribbons are hung on it. The Maypole, a phallic symbol, represents the masculine. The
soft colored ribbons are the feminine. The union of the two symbolizes the union of the God and Goddess. This is the time
to fertilize your dreams with action. It is legend that children conceived at Beltane were gifted by the Gods. These children
became known as Merry-Be-Gots.
HERBS:
Honeysuckle, St. John's wort, Hawthorn, All flowers.
INCENSE:
Frankincense, Lilac, Rose.
COLOR:
Green, Soft pink, Blue, Yellow.
DECORATIONS:
Maypole, Strings of beads or flowers, Ribbons, Spring flowers
FOOD:
Dairy, Oatmeal cakes, Cherries, Strawberries, Wine, Green salads.