The month of May has its own celebration on the first. May Day is now mostly a day of merriment, song and dance for children. As with most ritualistic celebrations, this one is rooted in Pagan times and involves the celebration of Beltane.
For the Druids of the British Isles, May 1 was the second most important holiday of the year. It was thought that the day divides the year into half. The other half was to be ended with the Samhain on November 1. Those days the May Day custom was the setting of new fire. And the fire itself was thought to lend life to the burgeoning springtime sun.
When Rome conquered the British Isles, they brought their festival for the flowers with them and customs from the two were intermingled. You can read more at the link above.
So frolic, dance around the May Pole, sing - all the fun stuff this day brings. But, as with all fool’s days, remember to be kind to those around you.
Later.
R.
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