Welcoming Early Summer: The Spirit of Beltane
- Andrea
- Oct 28
- 4 min read
Early Summer/ Beltane Blessings and Tricky Fairies
As the air thickens and the days lengthen, there’s a subtle quickening that stirs both the earth and the heart. Can you feel it? The excitement in the air… but also here in South Africa, we move into silly season, school parties, concerts, socials, the heat, the family visits and the whole experience of “Ke Dezemba”. The country almost goes into shutdown and holiday mode. Yes, it is supposed to be a time of productivity in terms of seasonal energy… but don’t get your hopes up!
The scent of Jacaranda and Jasmin fills the air, and the hum of bees marks the shift from spring’s promise to summer’s arrival. This turning of the seasons invites us to celebrate life, creativity, and the fertile abundance all around us. Before we get to the craziness of December vibes. We get to honour the transition from spring to summer. A time to awaken joy, set intentions, and honour the energy of growth.
Are you ready for Summer?
As the world goes a little commercially wild for Halloween, even here in sunny South Africa, we in the South are welcoming the arrival of early summer, known in the Celtic tradition as Beltane. or Early Summer.
For me, Beltane and Samhain (the Celtic name for the Halloween season) feel deeply connected, two sides of the same wheel.
Samhain (North: 31 Oct–1 Nov / South: 1 May) marks the end of harvest and the beginning of winter, a time of stillness and honouring the ancestors.
Beltane (North: 1 May / South: 31 Oct–1 Nov) celebrates fertility, vitality, and the return of warmth and light.
While Samhain honours death and release, Beltane celebrates life, creation, and joy. Both remind us of the natural cycles of death and rebirth that weave through nature and our own lives.
The Roots of Beltane
Beltane began as an ancient Gaelic pastoral festival marking the shift into summer. Bonfires were lit to bless and protect livestock, symbolising purification, vitality, and hope for abundance. Communities gathered to dance, feast, and set intentions for the fertile months ahead.
The Maypole dance, still seen in parts of Britain and Europe, symbolised the weaving together of community, love, and fertility, a joyful expression of life in full bloom.
How Traditions Evolved
As Christianity spread across Europe, many pagan and Celtic festivals were absorbed and reinterpreted. Samhain became All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day. Beltane’s spirit carried into May Day celebrations, keeping the flowers, dancing, and joy of the season alive.
Similar seasonal stories appear across the world, from Día de los Muertos in Mexico to Persephone’s descent in Greek mythology. All reflect our shared human understanding of cycles, renewal, and the mystery of life and death.
Why Beltane Still Matters
Even though Beltane’s roots lie far from Africa, I find deep meaning in honouring these seasonal shifts wherever I am. These rituals help us reconnect with nature, awaken creativity, and strengthen our sense of community.
Today, many of us live disconnected from the natural world. But when we tune into the changing seasons, noticing what is blossoming and what is fading, we begin to see where both the Earth and we ourselves may be out of balance. Through small, mindful rituals, we can bring harmony, creativity, and joy back into daily life.
Ways to Celebrate Early Summer in the South
This week, even if you are planning a Halloween party and spooky makeup, take a moment to welcome early summer and honour nature’s awakening:
Connect with Nature
Step outside, walk barefoot, tend your garden, or simply sit and listen to the birds. Feel the Earth beneath you and notice the subtle seasonal changes.
Light a Fire or Candle
The word Beltane means “bright fire.” Light a candle or small fire to welcome the season’s warmth and release what no longer serves you.
Plant Seeds or Flowers
Plant something new; herbs, vegetables, or flowers as a symbol of growth and intention. (This week, I have started my little witch’s herb garden.)
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” Audrey Hepburn
Set Intentions
Write your wishes or goals for the season on ribbons and tie them to a tree or branch. Let the wind carry your hopes.
Bring in Flowers
Decorate your home or make flower crowns with friends. Let colour and scent invite joy and playfulness into your space.
Express Gratitude to Loved Ones
Reach out to someone you cherish. Share kindness, support, or appreciation. Beltane reminds us of the strength of connection.
Offerings and Honouring
Leave small offerings for nature or the fairies, such as flowers, shells, or ribbons. Celebrate with dance, laughter, and good food.
The Bigger Picture
Beltane invites us to remember that we are part of nature, not separate from it. By marking these seasonal transitions, we honour the rhythm of life and rediscover joy in the simple act of being present.
Whether you celebrate through ritual, gardening, or quiet reflection, may this early summer season fill you with vitality, creativity, and light.
Download your Early Summer/ Samhain PDF and artwork at www.ovathemoon.co.za.
(Symbolically adapted for a Southern African context where Celtic traditions take on new local meaning.)
A footnote- A Whisper of Fairy Mischief
And as always, tread lightly during this season of magic. The fairies are said to be especially active at Beltane, darting through gardens, playing tricks, and guarding the wild beauty of nature. Tradition reminds us to leave them a small offering of milk, honey, or flowers, just in case. For while their laughter may be sweet, their mischief can be rather persuasive. Best to stay on their good side as summer begins to bloom!
Comments