Beltane, also known as May Day, is one of the most ancient holidays known to humans. Its origins can be traced back to Neolithic times when it was an important seasonal marker in the lives of our ancestors. A celebration of fertility and the arrival of spring, Beltane is celebrated in different ways today. Here are five of the most common ways people choose to celebrate this holiday!
- Plant a Tree
You don’t have to live in an area with a temperate climate or a home with a backyard in order to plant your own tree. Trees are planted by community groups and can be placed anywhere in order to beautify an area. Be sure that you select trees that will thrive in your climate, as planting trees that won’t grow well can do more harm than good. You should also select plants for your area; no matter how hardy they are, if they’re not native to your region, then they could face problems from local pests. Keep these factors in mind when deciding which species of tree you want to plant. A quick Internet search can help point you toward nearby organizations that provide free or cheap trees through planting programs.
- Have an Outdoor Picnic
The month of May brings pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and renewed hope. Take advantage of these elements to plan a festive outdoor picnic! This holiday is all about celebrating life, so why not gather friends and family for a meal al fresco? You can make a picnic even more memorable by creating an activity-filled itinerary. Remember: The goal here is fun!
- Enjoy the Spring Weather
One of our favorite ways to celebrate Beltane is by enjoying a beautiful spring day, especially if it’s sunny and warm. Whether you’re taking a walk through your local park or going for a picnic in the backyard, enjoying some fresh air is always a great way to get back in touch with your natural side. Plus, fresh air releases endorphins which have been shown to have a positive effect on mood! It’s true what they say: outdoor activities can be just as fun as indoor ones, so long as you dress warm enough (and don’t forget an umbrella). And hey, maybe you even spot an iridescent fairy or two…?
- Decorate Your Home with Handmade Items
Since ancient times, people have gathered around fires and decorated their homes with hand-made decorations. While there’s a reason for that, you don’t need to spend a ton of money on decorations! Look through your local thrift store or garage sales for holiday decorations, then create some yourself. Homemade bunting is one great option: Just cut the cloth into squares and tie them together with string or yarn. If you want something fancier, look up instructions online; making things like lace pennants is surprisingly easy. You can also use these homemade adornments as gifts or hostess gifts during your family get-togethers. No matter what you make (or buy), spread it throughout your home so that everything looks festive.
- Go On a Hike
The great thing about a hike is that anyone can do it. It doesn’t matter if you are 5-years-old or 95; hiking is a great way to relax and enjoy some fresh air. Make sure you stay safe by making your hike a fun family activity and keep an eye on everyone’s health and safety at all times.
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