Beltane was the summer festival of the Celtic people in celebration of the returning fertility of the Earth. Many of the festivals and rituals revolved around blessing and protecting livestock or crops. The Aos sí were thought to be particularly active at this time and people would often leave offering for them. Extensive historical records have been found for the celebration of Beltane in both Ireland and Scotland. … Continue readingWheel of the Year: Beltane

Yule has roots in many European traditions making it difficult to determine which traditions stem from what specific regions. Germanic peoples made sacrifices and burned Yule logs. Druids venerated Evergreens as a symbol of life triumphing over death. Romans held a festival called Saturnalia in which they made sacrifices to the God of Saturn in the name of a coming golden age.  … Continue readingWheel of the Year: Yule