Beltane is the Sabbat that falls directly across from Samhain on the Pagan Wheel of the Year, making it one of the more prominent Sabbats. The primary concern around this Sabbat was the success of the Spring crops, making many Beltane traditions revolve around crops and fertility. So how do we bring this celebration into the modern day?
Many traditional celebrations include lighting balefires, weaving flower chains and crowns, planting the last of the Spring plants, and of course, dancing around the infamous May Pole. The easiest and most accessible way to celebrate Beltane is to create your own Beltane altar. Simply decorate your altar with everything that reminds you of Spring and the power of the Sun. Make it personal! The two most prominent things on my Beltane altar are candles and flowers. You could even put out a cup or bowl to collect dew to bless yourself before any Beltane rituals.
Another simple and accessible way to celebrate is by watching the sun rise. This is also the perfect time to do a Beltane card reading using an elemental or plant based deck such as The Awakening Tarot, The Southern Botanic Oracle, or The Mushroom Oracle. You could even brew yourself a cup of Beltane tea following the recipe below:
Blend together 1 teaspoon of green tea, 1 teaspoon of calendula, 1 teaspoon of lavender, 1 teaspoon of roses, and 1 teaspoon of yarrow in a jar. Use 1 teaspoon of this mixture per cup of hot water. You'll want to steep this tea for three to five minutes in 195 degree water.
Other ways to celebrate include starting a garden or purchasing a new plant, putting together a flower basket for your home (you can use store bought cut flowers or collect wild flowers for this) or to share with friends, making your own flower crown to wear for the day, and having your own bonfire. How will you be celebrating?