The May Queen Emerges

"The main traditional element which was common to all Beltane festivals was the fire which gave it its name. All the fires of the community would be extinguished and a new, sacred 'Need Fire' was lit by either the village head or spiritual leader. From this source one or two bonfires were lit, and the animals of the community would be driven through or between them."

"The May Queen is also known as The Maiden, goddess of spring, flower bride, queen of the faeries, lady of the flowers. The May Queen is the stillness around which everything revolves. She embodys purity, strength and the potential for growth. She is the personification of the energy of the earth."

What a fantastic festival! It was cold and windy and sometimes you didn't get to see much but when you could see things they were pretty spectacular!

Information about Edinburgh's Beltane Festival can be found on the Beltane Fire Society website.