Beltane or May Day occurs on May 1st, falling opposite Samhain in the wheel of the year. Beltane marks the start of summer and is a time for feasting, celebration and joy. It is a time for looking forward to the future and to prepare for the summer months ahead. It is also a time for love and union as it represents the union of the Goddess and the God. The rituals may be quite erotic in nature. It is another fertility sabbat and the Great Rite may also be a part of the ritual. Dancing around the Maypole may also be a part of the festivities. Beltane is thought by Wiccans to be derived from a word meaning “balefire.” It is traditional to take home a smoldering piece of the Beltane bonfire to bring blessings to your home during the coming summer months. It is also believed that the smoke from a Beltane bonfire is the best to use for ritual purification of tools, jewelry etc.
The Sabbats in order: Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Litha, Lammas, Mabon.
