'Return of the Light'- Bealtaine Celebrations in Ireland


 

Today marks the beginning of the ancient Celtic festival of Bealtaine. In Ireland today, may rural villages still practice the folkloric traditions associated with the festival that heralds the beginning of summer and the ‘return of light’.

One such tradition I like to honour on the eve of every Bealtaine, and of course it involves wildflowers. It is believed that if you leave wild blooms, usually primrose, gorse and hawthorn outside on your doorstep or windowsill, then your homestead will enjoy good luck and be safe from any harm from evil spirits who mysteriously pass through our world under the guise of darkness on the eve of May 1st.

Come take a look into a day in my life, and maybe you can also try this tradition with your own flowers from your garden or out in the wild. Hope you enjoy my latest video. Beannachtai na Bealtaine! -Gillian x