Beliefs and practices of ancient Celts have been put together through modern druidism. They believed in the following:
1.Gods and Goddesses
The God and Goddess are seen as the creative force, there were many others worshipped which were different aspects of the main God and Goddess. 374 Celtic dieties have been found through historical writings of which 36 were most popular. Populat Gods and Goddesses worshipped were Arawn, Brigid, Cernunnos, Cerridwen, Danu, Herne, Lugh, Morgan, Rhiannon and Taranis.
It's believed that the dead are transported to the otherworld and the souls were immortal. After the person died, their soul would live again through another human body.
3. Baptism Initians.
4. Divination
Many techniques were used and some still remain today such as meditation, interpreting dreams and using runes.
5. Symbolism
Druids had sacred symbols such as Awen and Triskele symbols.
Druids still celebrate the festivals of the past today. The main 4 festivals celebrated are:
1. Samhain-31st October/1st November
This is the end and the beginning of the Celtic year which consists of a feast in rememberance of the dead, who have passed into the otherworld.
2. Imbolc-2nd February
This marks the return of light where the first signs of growth are starting to appear.
3. Beltaine-1st May
Celebration of the Fires of Bel. The May pole is a sacred symbol of Beltaine symbolising fertility and the union between the God and Goddess.
4. Lughnasadh (lammas)-1st Aug
The feast of Lugh and the celebration of the harvest.
Information sources taken from:
Religious Tolerance for All religions
Druid Organisation
Pagan Federation