May is traditionally the true beginning of summer, with its warm weather and longer days. Love is in the air, gardening, the scent of flowers and new-mown grasses. It is warm enough now to plant crops for the sustenance of the community.The fair maid who,
The first of May
Goes to the fields at
Break of day
And washes in dew
'Neath the hawthorn tree
Will ever after
Handsome be
It is also the time to get out of the house and celebrate. May poles are raised in villages, and people decorate them with flower garlands and bouquets, then string them with ribbons and dance. Lucky tokens or charms and rags and ribbons are hung on the pole as a petition for health or luck in an endeavour. This practice carries through to bushes and trees surrounding sacred waters. Dance troupes begin their rounds now, and the village stage is readied for their performances.
Mayday eve is associated with the spirits. Various forms of divination are practiced at this time to take advantage of the spirits' wisdom, and sharp objects such as pins are thrown into sacred wells and springs for protection. Wishes are made on these offerings, a precursor to the wishing well of modern times. Bonfires are lit to keep evil away, and to cleanse and purify.
May first and its eve (30 April) are known as Beltaine~ Bell being the ancient sun-deity, tan meaning fire. Large bonfires would be lit and the stock driven through them to ensure health and fertility for the coming season.
Plants sacred to May Day:
May Day is also considered to be the day of the worker, with many countries giving laborers the day off.The silver birch tree (Wales), which is often used for the Maypole
Hawthorn (y ddraenen wen in Welsh), whose flowers are only allowed in the house on May Day itself. Otherwise, it is unlucky.