Thinning the veil: Celebrating Beltane, aka "May Day"
Beltane, also known as May Day, is a holiday observed by many Irish, Scottish, Manx and Galician people as well as Wiccans and Celtic neopagans. For those in the Northern Hemisphere, it begins at sunset on April 30 and ends at sunset on May 1.
Beltane is a celebration of fertility. Herne, god of the wild hunt, is reunited with the Goddess who will become pregnant with their Star Child. The veil between the world of mortals and the faery Otherworld is thin.
Traditionally, Beltane was celebrated by consummating after sunset on April 30, falling asleep under a hawthorn, May-tree, or faery-mound and driving cattle between two sacred fires the next day before sunset.
If a couple had been married for longer than a year and one day, they could chose to remove their wedding rings along with the restrictions those rings impose.
There are plenty of more modern ways to celebrate - even if you’re quarantined.
Prepare a May basket by filling it with flowers and goodwill, and leave it on the porch of someone who needs it — This is a super cheap ($2.59/basket) way to brighten someone’s day and to say goodbye at the end of a long semester. Embrace the change this new season brings.
Pick some more flowers and make a flower crown — There are tons of videos that can help, but flower crowns are a cute way to keep nature on the mind.
Attend a local Beltane celebration — Southeast Pagan Events is hosting one on May 1 at 6pm at the Back to Nature Garden at 1813 Kissingbower Rd in Augusta, Georgia (28 min from campus). Dancing around a Maypole is ceremonial! If you’re more comfortable, host your own with those in your social bubble.
Jump a bonfire or smaller flame — Make a wish! If a loved one is nearby, jump into the season with them. Welcome the fertile season by dancing clockwise around it.
Decorate your altar (if you have one) — Blue, green and purple symbolize Beltane. Add amethyst, sapphire and peridot if you have them. Enjoy a cup of chamomile, wormwood, or lavender tea. If you are low on resources, check out the Peaceful Warrior Apothecary in Martinez (31 minutes from campus).
Meditate with nature — There are so many beautiful places around us. Go to where you feel at peace. If you need guidance, try the Savannah Rapids Pavillion (30 minutes from campus) or Phinizy Swamp Nature Park (26 minutes from campus). Meditation or clearing one’s mind can be a daunting task. Use apps like Headspace or Calm to help.
