Merry May Day

[icymist]

For many Pagans, Heathens and polytheists around the world, this weekend is one to celebrate. The days surrounding the first of May mark many traditional spring festivals and religious holidays recognized around the world. Of these the most well known is Beltane or Bealtaine, which, in some traditions, honors the union of goddess and god or marks the beginning of a Celtic summer. In many secular and non-Pagan religious communities, the day is still celebrated as May Day, complete with the iconic Maypole.



However, that is just one of the many holidays appearing at this time. Walpurgisnacht, celebrated the night of April 30, is closely associated with Witches and also called Hexennacht. The eve of May Day was consider the night when witches gather and meet.

In ancient Greece, the holiday of Anthesteria was celebrated. Today it is more commonly called Protomagia. It is a day that recognizes the rebirth of nature and is associated with the well-known story of Persephone’s ascent from the Underworld. While some modern Hellenic polytheists celebrate this day in February, many celebrate it on the first of May. And, not long after, as spring continues its dance, some modern Pagans celebrate Thargelia, which is a birthday celebration for Apollon and Artemis.

- See more at: http://wildhunt.org/2016/04/merry-may-day.html#sthash.SoEotNtO.dpuf

[Still Blue in PDX]

1. Happy Bealtaine, Icymist, et al!

We have Morris Dancers bringing in the sun at dawn at the Pittock Mansion in Portland. Sadly, I slept through it this year, but will be with a group this afternoon to dance around the pole and jump the fire, which is actually a votive candle in a small cauldron because we are all old.

This was a few years ago at the Rose Garden in Portland.

[yallerdawg]

2. Danced the Maypole, charged our intentions for the year - and feasted!

My wife and I focused on rebirth and prosperity - let the younger folk handle the fertility - been there, done that!

It was a beautiful day!

Happy Beltane!