The Gaelic May Day Festival
We celebrate Bealtaine on the 2nd of May 2026
What is Bealtaine?
Bealtaine is one of the four Gaelic seasonal festivals (Samhain, Imbolc and Lughnasadh being the others). It marked the beginning of the pastoral summer season when livestock were driven out to the summer pastures. Rituals were held at that time to protect them from harm, both natural and supernatural through rituals with fire, but also to protect crops, dairy, people and encourage growth! The fairies, older gods and nature spirits also played a big role and many rituals had as a goal to appease them all.
In 2026 we celebrate Bealtaine on the 2d of May due to it being a weekend, but some celebrate it when the hawthorne blooms. As it in any way takes us closer to summer and the sun isn't at it's highest energy just yet, it feels like a fitting time in the Northern Hemisphere to gather and celebrate with music, food and dance!
What to bring:
1. Ritual & Community Elements
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A Dish for the Potluck: A prepared dish to share for our "Feast of Flora" at 16:30. Something easy to share or that travels well is ideal.
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Writing Tools: While materials are provided at 10:00, you are welcome to bring a favorite pen for writing your wishes and blessings for the lilac tree.
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Instruments & Stories: If you have a drum, flute, or a poem to share, feel free to bring it for the bonfire and live music session in the afternoon.
2. Clothing & Footwear
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Sturdy Walking Shoes: We will be hiking for 30 minutes to Gjellberget over uneven terrain. Flip-flops are not suitable for this portion.
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Layers for All Seasons: Even in May, the breeze from Mjøsa can be cool, and the temperature drops once the sun sets. Bring a warm sweater or windproof jacket.
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Rain Gear: Our ceremonies held outdoors continue in light rain. A waterproof shell or poncho is highly recommended.
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Festive Attire (Optional): Many choose to wear bright colors or floral patterns to honor the Maypole dance and the arrival of spring.
3. Comfort & Sun Protection
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Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Please use sunscreen that's not harmfull to aquatic life if you wish to bathe.
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Sit-mat (Sitteunderlag): Essential for comfort during our lectures and ceremonies on the ground or stone.
- Bug & Tick Spray: As the forest wakes up in May, it is a good idea to have protection for the day.
4. Personal Essentials
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Water Bottle: Sufficient water to stay hydrated during the day.
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Small Daypack: To carry your gear, sit-mat and any treasures you have or gather for the Maypole (please ensure environment friendly treasures/decorations).
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A Notebook & Pen:If you wish to record insights from the lectures or rituals.
Children:
- You have the responsibility for your own children.
- Children are accompanied by an adult at all times
When:
Saturday 2.5.2026 10:00 - 20:00
Prices:
350kr p.p. (20 people max.)
Children up to age 13: free
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Midori No Hi
Greenery Day (4th of May 2025)
Midori no Hi is a Japanese national holiday celebrated on May 4th. Its official purpose is "to commune with nature, be grateful for its blessings, and nurture a rich spirit."
The History: Originally, this holiday was celebrated on April 29th to mark the birthday of Emperor Shōwa (Hirohito), who reigned from 1926 to 1989. He was a passionate marine biologist and a deep lover of plants. After his death, the day was renamed "Greenery Day" to honor his environmental legacy without focusing on the political complexities of his reign.In 2007, the date was moved to May 4th to sit in the heart of Japan's "Golden Week."
The Shinto Connection: While it is a modern civil holiday, its roots are deeply anchored in Shinto animism. In Shinto, the world is inhabited by Kami—spirits that reside in all things, especially in the "green world" of forests, mountains, and ancient trees.
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The "Midori" Spirit: The word Midori(green) represents more than just a color; it signifies the vibrant, pulsing life-force of the earth.
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The Shared Heart: By bringing Midori no Hi to Siren, we bridge two worlds. Like our ancestors here in the North who honored the Landvetter(land spirits), Shinto reminds us that the birch trees and the stones we stand among are not just scenery—they are our kin.
How it fits our day: We include Midori no Hi to remind us to stop and simply be with the green world. While the Maypole is a shout of joy for the coming summer, the spirit of Midori no Hi is a quiet bow of thanks to the forest that sustains us.
When:
Saturday 2.5.2026 10:00 - 20:00
Prices:
350kr p.p. (20 people max.)
Children up to age 13: free
Wheel of the Year Subscription?
What are we actually going to celebrate?
We will celebrate this beautiful moment in time with both Celtic, Nordic as well as Japanese traditions weaven into the day.
Program:
The program might be subject to change due to the weather and is currently still being updated/edited.
10:00 - 11:30 Arrival and Welcome
Everybody arrives and gets pen, ribbons and paper to write wishes/blessings which can be wrapped to the lilac tree. Host will offer a light lunch.
11:30 - 13:30 The Greenery Walk & Forest Bathing (shinrin-yoku)
The host will lead a shinrin-yoku session. We will both experience the forest with all our senses as well as wildflowers and twigs to decorate the Maypole as well as flowercrowns. This activity is suitable for all ages.
13:30 - 14:00 The Creation: Crows & Ribbons, Preparing the May Pole
We'll use the treasures we found on our walk as well as ready to be used materials to decorate the Maypole. We'll create flower crowns for all who want. Suitable for all ages.
14:00 - 15:30 The MayPole Dance
This is the highlight of the day. Children will be part of the inner circle, adults on the outer. During the dance, all the colors will weave around the maypole. Explanation will follow, suitable for all ages.
15:30 - 16:30 The Bealtaine Fire
The highlight for the brave! The Bealtaine fire is an old custom where people would jump over the fire for luck, fulfilling their wishes, fertility, prosperity and good health.
16:30 - 18:00 The Feast of Flora
We'll share food together, stories, poetry and there might be some live music too!
18:00 - 20:00 Shinto Fire Ceremony
Ceremony is available for all ages, but more suited for adults due to the time. Children are welcome as long as they're accompanied by their caregivers.
When:
Saturday 2.5.2026 10:00 - 20:00
Prices:
350kr p.p. (20 people max.)
Children up to age 13: free
Wheel of the Year Subscription?
What to bring:
- Warm clothes
- Good walking shoes
- A seating mat or fur
- A drum/rattle, something that makes sound
- Food for the potluck
Get in touch
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