Join us as we celebrate the beginning of summer with community, creativity, and connection. Rooted in the ancient traditions of Bealtaine, this mini festival invites you to come together with neighbours and friends to mark the turning of the seasons.
The 1st May marks Bealtaine, the Celtic start of summer and the return of light. Bealtaine is one of the four major Irish Celtic fire festivals along with Samhain, Imbolc and Lughnasa. It was traditionally when cattle were taken to the summer pastures and rituals were performed to protect the cattle and encourage plant growth.
Dolmens Climate Action Network have organised a number of events with our partners for you to enjoy over this festival. All the events are free unless stated, and can be booked via https://tinylink.net/IRJRJ.
- Sunday 27th April 10.00 am-1.00 pm in Castlewellan Community Centre, Second Hand Clothes Market, Margadh Éadaí Athlaimhe, with Glór Uachtair Tire. Discover how fast fashion has such a negative impact on the environment. Pick up a real bargain on good quality clothes, enjoy the craic and try a few words, or have a good conversation in Irish on this theme !
- Wednesday 30 April 7.00-10.00 pm at the Turnip House, Shadow, Shelter and Story for Bealtaine Eve!. It’s time to celebrate together with Mourne Meitheal Storytellers Sean O’ Baoill and Sinead McAleavey and Circle Dance Instructor Laurie Randall. This is a time to learn and participate in some Bealtaine traditions !
- Friday 2nd May 2-4pm Castlewellan Library Bright Fire Creative Writing Workshop led by Local author and poet Maggie Doyle. Explore poetry and prose that capture some of the Bealtine themes of renewal, passion and the awakening earth. This is suitable for seasoned writers or those setting out on their writing journey- a welcome space to ignite your imagination.
- Friday 2nd May 7.30 pm Tipsy Cow Mourne Storytellers Bealtaine Night with Tura Arutura and guests. This storyteller, dancer and Irish speaker is sharing his dual identity at First Friday in Hilltown for the ancient festival of Bealtaine £10. Book via https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/thegathering/t-molqapx
- Saturday 3rd May 6.00-8.00 am Dawn Chorus walk Ceiliúr na Camhaoire. Meet at the playground at Bunkers Hill. Join with us and Pól Mac Cana, ecologist and translator, for an early morning walk in nature to listen to the symphony of birds at Bunkers Hill and learn to identify some of their songs. Bring a warm drink and , if you have them, binoculars.
- Saturday 3rd May 2-4 pm Castlewellan Community Allotments – Grand Opening. Welcome to the new Community Garden and Allotments at Station Road, Castlewellan. Love fresh vegetables? Join us to view the new allotment space made so far and meet some friends, old and new. Find out more and share your ideas .
- Sunday 4th May 2-4pm Singing for Serenity Castlewellan Forest Park. Meeting at the Rangers Hut beside the Grange. Bring the family to join Ciara from Body Song for a fun and immersive song circle. Taking inspiration from the nature all around, find your voice! (Carparking charges apply)
Bealtaine is also a time for cures for example washing your face with the dew of May day morning was believed to have curative properties. But we know now that fresh air and a walk in the countryside is beneficial for mental health. So do join us for fresh air, fun and companionship. Events are free but please book your place via https://tinylink.net/IRJRJ