02/05/2026
LΓ‘ Feile Bealtaine!
Bealtaine, an ancient Irish festival celebrated from May 1st. The word is believed to have originated from Bel Tine meaning the Fire of Bel, or Belenus. Belenus was an ancient God of Fire & Healing. He was the opposite of the goddess at Samhain, bringing brightness, energy & warmth to the months ahead.
The ancient Irish held festivals on & around the 1st May & this tradition still continues in some parts of the country.
Dundalk itself, long held a Maytime Festival, celebrating the energy of the arts & entertainment in the spirit of Bealtaine. Many in Dundalk would love to see this tradition revived.
However, there are several smaller customs which we can all revive, including the Bringing of Flowers to your doorstep, Lighting a Bonfire (which can just be a candle to celebrate Belenus) or Decorating our gardens with colour.
One of the many traditions of Bealtaine is the May Bush. Decorated by the 30th April, placed outside homes or in prominent positions in the community.
Thank you to our Anne, for decorating all our "May Bushes" to celebrate Warmth & Healing for the summer.
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