Beltaine

The word: ‘Beltaine’ is Old Irish and ‘Bealtaine’ is modern Irish. the name likely means "Fire of Belos." This Féis normally falls in early May.

--- Adapted from "Holidays Introduction," by Crommán mac Nessa,
http://groups.msn.com/CromansGrove/holidayintro.msnw

Bealtaine is an ancient Gaelic holiday celebrated around May 1st. Historically, this festival was celebrated in Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. Bealtaine survives in folkloric practices in the Celtic Nations and the diaspora, and has experienced a revival in recent decades. Beltaine has long been celebrated with feasts and rituals, and is a day to celebrate with song and dance. It is the second most important holy day, marking the light half of the year. Beltaine is a time to pray and give thanks to the fertility god and goddess to ensure a bountiful harvest in the fall. As summer begins, weather becomes warmer, the plants blossom, and an exuberant mood prevails. In old Celtic traditions it was a time marriages of a year and a day (Sainings) could be undertaken but it is rarely observed in that manner in modern times. Life is to be honored in its many forms. The God and Goddess are united in marriage. Ansestors are invited to join in the festivities.