The celebration of Beltaine, which translates as "Bel's fire" signals the beginning of the warmth of the Celtic year. The fires in all the hearths were extinguished on the eve before Beltaine. They were then relit for the coming year from the village Beltaine Fire (like a bonfire). The cattle were set out from their winter housing and driven through the smoke of the fires that contained medicinal herbs, which would purge the cattle of ticks. The planting was completed and now all hoped for a good growing season.
There was of course celebration as well. The Beltaine celebrations were dedicated to the sun. The large bon fire would be lit. Maypoles were erected, which the children would decorate with colourful ribbons and flowers, and much dancing around them was done as the village prepared to welcome the new season.
