Bealtaine

Bealtaine
("First Day of Summer")

At Bealtaine cattle are driven out to the summer pastures. Rituals are performed to protect cattle, people and crops, and to encourage growth. Special bonfires are kindled, whose flames, smoke and ashes are deemed to have protective powers.

These gatherings are accompanied by a feast, and some of the food and drink are offered to the Aes Sídhe ("Folk of the Fairy Mounds"). Doors, windows, byres and livestock are decorated with yellow May flowers, perhaps because they evoke fire. In some places people make a May Bush: typically a thorn bush or branch decorated with flowers, ribbons, bright shells and rushlights.

Source: Bealtaine Traditions in Ireland