Fête Celtique

The story of Beltaine, also known as May Day, has its roots in ancient Irish culture. Its celebration dates back to Celtic times and marks the transition between spring and summer, a symbolic time of rebirth and renewal. The word “Beltaine” comes from the Gaelic “Bel”, referring to Belenos, the Celtic sun god, and “taine”, meaning “fire”. This fire festival, traditionally celebrated on the eve of the first day of May, signifies the awakening of life after a long winter. It heralds the return of the sun, promising brighter and warmer months. Beltaine was originally a Celtic pagan ritual that marked the beginning of the agricultural season. The ancient Celts believed that the passage of this day had magical power, opening the doors between the world of the living and that of the spirits. They believed that during Beltaine, these worlds could interact more freely, hence the various rituals aimed at protecting the people and livestock from evil spirits. Belenos is the god of the sun and health "The Bright", he represents the principle of Light. Hence his festival, Beltaine, which commemorates the return of the luminous period. He is therefore the young representation of Light. He is harmony, beauty in all its forms.
It protects against disease: at Beltaine (the fires of Belenos), the herds were passed between fires to avoid disease. The fires were transferred to St. John's Day, at the summer solstice (which is not a Celtic festival). The cult of Belenos consisted of sacred rites around large bonfires, preferably on mountain peaks.
The Celtic year is divided into two seasons: a dark season which begins at Samhain and a light season which begins at Beltaine.