Beltane Blooms at The Awen Center

By Ian Koontz

JEFFERSON — Earlier this month on May 4th, The Awen Center, owned by Beth Mowry, celebrated the Celtic holiday of Beltane, which marks the half-way point between the spring equinox and summer solstice. The event was held on The Awen Center’s wooded grounds, which was decorated with folksy floral buds and the maypole, a traditional staple of the Beltane holiday. Over 40 attendees signed in to the spiritual event, and from noon to five enjoyed the blooming spring scenery while the festivities commenced around them.

The day began with a welcome circle, (which was quite large due to the unexpected positive turnout!), where the organizers and attendees, in a mix of everyday clothing and celebratory Beltane wear, introduced themselves. Then, in The Awen Center’s large furnished barn, the event continued. Food was served to all who came in the festive dining area, and vendors were selling their handmade jewelry, herbal teas and other esoteric items.

The Awen Center’s owner, Beth Mowry explained the reason for the yearly ritual, “It’s about reconnecting with nature, as well as with ourselves, and each other. A sense of community is so important. We are honored to be able to continue to bring a community together.” Attendees who wished to learn more about Beltane or other Celtic/Druid traditions, enjoyed free readings, and in-depth conversations with the organizers.

The main event was the traditional maypole dance, a vibrant celebration of the blossoming spring. The maypole itself is a wooden pole decorated with colorful ribbons, and finds its roots in many European folk festivals. It stood in a meadow near a budding apple tree. The 40 attendees each took turns holding ribbons on the pole and, as tradition goes, wove in and out in a spiral dance, intertwining the rainbow of ribbons in a welcome to spring.

Though many came to the event as strangers, they left as friends. The Awen Center has, for over two years, brought people together in a community, which is blossoming just like spring. Later this summer, The Awen Center will host workshops and events of a variety of topics, from forest therapy, an arts weekend and a large gathering to celebrate the Summer Solstice from June 19th - 22nd. For more information about the center and these events, see TheAwenCenter.org or check them out on Facebook. For specific questions, email info@TheAwenCenter.org.