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Beltane Celtic Festival

Not yet published by Mona Rae, Writer

Country: United Kingdom

The Experience

The Beltane Celtic Festival is celebrated in Thornborough of England. Beltane is a word derived from the Celtic language and means the “Fires of Bel”. This festival is celebrated at the beginning of summer and indicates fertility for the coming year. Celtic festivals were always celebrated based on the needs of the community. During the spring time, every Celt hoped for a good year for farming and that it will be fruitful. They celebrated the festival by burning fires in their farms in the evening. Young men and women, old and small collect food, flowers and wood for lighting the fires. This event also leads to courtships and marriages and all good things like new friendships. It also developed a communal feeling among them.

Thornborough is also famous for the Henge which was actually a ritual monument constructed by Prehistoric people. There has been evidence found in this area of these rituals that are carried out even today. The Beltane Celtic Festival marks a new beginning for everyone. Getting here could be a bit of problem if you do not have transport. Unfortunately there is no public transport to get you here. As you may have realized the best time to visit is when the summer starts. The nearest coach station is Ripon which is still a good 50 miles away.
When you come for the Beltane Celtic Festival come prepared to stay over a for a weekend at least. When you arrive here, drive to the Dippy Field and find a good parking spot. The campsite opens on April 30th every year and closes on May 2nd. So plan your trip carefully keeping these dates in mind. You should plan to leave by the afternoon on the 2nd. The campsite does not charge for accommodation, but an individual can donate £3 per night. It helps to maintain the place in the non festive season. However there is no obligation to pay this amount.
During the Beltane Celtic festival the fire is burned on the Dippy Field. A large communal fire is set in the field. However if overnight campers wish to have their own fires, they can do so by following the safety instructions. However keep in mind that in summer months when you are close to the fire, it is best to wear full sleeved clothing. Also carry some eye gear to protect the eyes from burning or unwanted injuries. Another thing to keep in mind while burning out your own fires is to arrange for your own firewood. The park would wish to conserve its reserves.
Pets are welcome at the Beltane Celtic Festival but their safety is the owner’s responsibility. Also campers have to take all the rubbish they get into the park back with them. There is no Garbage Disposal out here. Some of the things you will need for camping here are sacks to put the rubbish in, bedding and gear that keep you comfortable. You will get ample food here so that is not a worry.

When to Go

The campsite opens on April 30th every year and closes on May 2nd. So plan your trip carefully keeping these dates in mind. You should plan to leave by the afternoon on the 2nd.

Odds n' Ends

Pets are welcome at the Beltane Celtic Festival but their safety is the owner’s responsibility. Also campers have to take all the rubbish they get into the park back with them. There is no Garbage Disposal out here.

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