In Glastonbury, Beltane holds particular significance. As well as being a key cross-quarter festival marking the start of summer, the Tor itself is perfectly aligned to watch the sun as it appears on the horizon at this time of year. It could even be said that the wider South West shares in this alignment, as the line known as the St Michael’s ley runs across it, passing through both Glastonbury and Avebury on its way to the east coast.
Beltane is a festival often marked by traditions such as Morris dancers, maypole ceremonies, the crowning of the May Queen, and later, the battle of the red and white dragon, a folkloric tale of some depth. All of these were woven into the town’s celebrations in a coherent way, making this one of the most well-attended May Day events in the country.
Above: Green Men carrying the freshly cut pole from the woods at Butleigh. Photo: Jason Bryant xAbove: Green Men carrying the freshly cut pole from the woods at Butleigh. Photo: Jason Bryant
This year the maypole was sourced from Butleigh Woods, and carried across the Levels by the Green Men, while the hole was dug by the women of the community in a ceremony held in the Fairfield the day before May Day.
Above: The women performing a ceremonial dance to invite the erection of the maypole. Photo: Jason Bryant
The maypole itself is now displayed proudly in the Peace Garden of St Dunstan’s House. The community and visitors alike will be able to view the maypole in St Dunstan’s House garden between the hours of 10am and 3pm, when the Glastonbury Information Centre is open.
It is something for the town to be proud of. Despite the to and fro in the run-up, everything went very much to plan. The new route for the maypole procession, led by the Green Men, and the fresh location for the ceremony within the blossom field at the foot of the Tor, all felt natural and well suited. The amphitheatre layout of the Fairfield set the tone, offering views towards Wearyall Hill and Chalice Hill, and in the other direction, straight up to St Michael’s Tower.
Above: The gathering for the Beltane ceremony at the Tor Fairfield. Photo: Matt Witt
We would like to thank the National Trust for agreeing to the use of the blossom circle, a ring of 27 crab apple trees in the Tor Fairfield, originally planted with this kind of gathering in mind. Thank you also to the local police for their presence and support. As a Town Council, we managed road closures, coordinated with the police, and provided public facilities, helping to ensure the smooth running of the day.
The biggest thank you goes to all of the organisers, organisations, charities, and businesses who came together to make the event happen. The time and effort involved in bringing something like this together should not be underestimated. Finally, thank you to everyone who came, from near and far. It would not be what it is without you.
Above: The Maypole dance – Photo: Matt Witt
Wishing everyone continued warmth and wellbeing as the season unfolds, and offering gratitude for all who contributed to and supported the day. May future gatherings continue in the same spirit of cooperation, celebration, and care for the community.