Beltane E2: Spring Sacrifice

Wild Kin: A Celtic Podcast · Apr 12, 2026 · 15m · transcript

As the first of May approaches, the ancient Celtic festival of Beltane marks a turning point as a threshold between seasons.

In this episode, we explore how communities may have prepared for the coming summer with rituals that hint at something darker. From the preserved body of Lindow Man, to 18th century Beltane customs recorded by John Ramsay, to the later May Day figure of Jack in the Green, a pattern begins to emerge.

While separated by centuries, these traditions reflect a shared human response to uncertainty, and the question of what must be given in return.

For more Celtic-inspired…