Pagan Pride Parade

May 30, 2010

Author: Staff Writer

Source: Demotix

http://www.demotix.com/news/343582/pagan-pride-parade

Pagans of all persuasions from across Britain gathered in London and held a parade to celebrate their faith, dancing in the fountains at Russell Square and in the British Museum courtyard.

The Pagan Pride Parade is a part of a two day celebration of Beltane, a traditional festival, particularly in Ireland, which marked the start of the summer, when cows and sheep were moved to summer pastures on higher ground. Midway between the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice it was usually celebrated in early or mid-May.

Various rituals were carried out which it was hoped would lead to a good growing season and a fruitful harvest. Originally a Gaelic festival, it is claimed to be still celebrated in some rural areas, and similar festivals were also found among the Celts.