Bealtaine is an Ancient Celtic cross-quarter festival which occurs when the veil between the faerie world and human world is thin. This festival ushers in the summer season. It is a celebration of fertility and rebirth. Traditionally celebrated on May 1, or midway between Spring equinox and Summer solstice, it encompasses the return of cattle to the pastures to mark the beginning of summer. As a fire festival, the festivities include the lighting of bonfires. The bonfire is seen as a cleansing, purifying and spiritual protection element. As the cattle are ushered between two bonfires they are said to be cleansed and protected. The festival also celebrates fertility and the celebration of female and male energies with the procession of the May Queen and the Green Man, feasting and mead.
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