Beltane is an ancient Celtic holiday celebrating the beginning of summer. In modern times it has been revived and is celebrated by many practicing Neopagans and Wiccans. As with many pagan and Wiccan rites, celebrations of Beltane correspond to the perceived changing of the seasons. Summer is considered the season of fertility and may Beltane celebrations are sexual in nature.

According to news reports, 11,000 revelers were at the Beltane Fire Festival in Scotland at midnight, April 30, 2009.Scotsman: 11,000 revellers bring in the summer at Beltane Fire Festival (May 1, 2009)

Beltane is part of the ancient Celtic calendar, and it marks the the height of spring and flowering of life, as an expression of fertility and new life.

The traditional celebration of Beltane begins with a fire, lit by flint spark or friction. Flowers and green wood are used in many fashions, including decorating buildings with flowers and greenwood and leaving may baskets on the front steps of friends. Festivities are accompanies by a may bowl of punch or wine; dancing around a May Pole, and a lot of outdoor sex between the May Queen and her subjects.Circle Sanctuary: Beltane