This May, Glastonbury, invites you to immerse yourself in its legendary Beltane festivities. Celebrated on 1st May with a dawn ceremony at Chalice Well and reaching a crescendo on 5th May with the Glastonbury Dragons May Fayre and Procession, these events mark a highlight in the Pagan calendar, ushering in the summer.

What is Beltane?

Beltane is an ancient Celtic festival celebrated on the 1st of May, marking the midpoint between the spring equinox and summer solstice. It is one of the eight sabbats in the Wheel of the Year, which includes other festivals like Samhain, Imbolc, and Lughnasadh, celebrated by Pagans, Wiccans, and many others interested in Celtic traditions.

Beltane signifies the start of summer or the "light half" of the year. It's a time of fertility, growth, and the potential for new beginnings, both in nature and within ourselves. The festival is traditionally observed with various customs and rituals aimed at protecting the community, encouraging growth, and bringing prosperity.

Whether you're drawn to Chalice Well's peaceful beginnings or the High Street parade, prepare for an unforgettable experience.

However, with the town expected to be bustling, planning your visit, including where to park and stay, is crucial for a seamless experience.

The Glastonbury Dragons

Sunday, 5th May 2024:

The Dragons May Fayre and Procession begins at 10:00 AM at St Dunstan's House, featuring the Glastonbury Dragons and Pentacle Drummers, culminating in a procession that transforms the High Street into a river of myth and music.

The event promises a day filled with performers, entertainment, and the much-anticipated appearance of the Glastonbury Dragons, alongside special guests, the Pentacle Drummers.

The day's schedule is as follows:

10:00 AM

• Opening Announcement: Glastonbury's famous Town Cryer, David, will declare the May Fayre open.
• May Fayre Attractions: Explore handmade Dragon and May-themed arts and crafts, join the new Dragon supporters club, and enjoy homemade treats from the Glastonbury Country Market at the back of the car park. Grab a hot drink and enjoy free refills with any Glastonbury Dragons mug purchase.

10:15 AM

• Dragon Drummers: Listen to the powerful beats of the Glastonbury Dragon Drummers on the Glastonbury Information Centre veranda.

11:15 AM – 12:15 PM

• Morris Dancing: Enjoy performances by Glastonbury Border Morris, Wild Moon Morris, and guests Lyme Morris near the Market Cross.

12:15 PM – 12:45 PM

• Pentacle Drummers: Experience the rhythmic energy of the Pentacle Drummers at the platform in front of the Glastonbury Information Centre.

1:00 PM

• Road Closure: The streets prepare for the Dragon procession.
• Become a Dragon Leg: Volunteers needed to animate the dragons from the back of the Town Hall car park to the Blossom Circle at Glastonbury Tor.

1:30 PM/1:45 PM

• Dragon Procession Preparation: The Glastonbury Dragon Drummers and Pentacle Drummers will assemble to lead the Red and White Dragons out.

1:50 PM

• Dragons Battle: Witness the seasonal battle between the Red Dragon of Summer and the White Dragon of Winter at the Town Hall car park.

1:55 PM/2:00 PM

• Dragon Crowning: The Mayor of Glastonbury will crown the victorious dragon, followed by a procession up High Street to the Fairfield.

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

• Morris Dancing at Town Hall: For those staying behind, enjoy further performances by local Morris groups.

2:45 PM

• Dragons at the Fairfield: The dragons reach the Fairfield, continuing to the blossom circle.

3:00 PM – 4:00/4:15 PM

• Seasonal Ceremony: Join the community ceremony featuring the Town Cryer, the Drummers of Avalon, ceremonialists, and a fire dancer, all set against the backdrop of Glastonbury Tor.

4:15 PM/4:30 PM

• Procession Returns: Head back to the Town Hall for final performances.

4:40 PM

• Closing Drum Performance: The day concludes with energetic drumming outside the Glastonbury Information Centre.

5:00 PM

• May Fayre Closes: Your last chance to explore the stalls and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Accommodating All: Where to Stay in Glastonbury (H/T: Normal For Glastonbury)

Glastonbury offers an eclectic mix of accommodations, ensuring visitors find the perfect place to stay, from bed and breakfasts to cottages, hotels and camping sites.

Camping and caravan sites in Glastonbury:

In Glastonbury, accommodations cater to every preference, featuring a mix of camping sites and high-end hotels.

The Isle of Avalon Touring Park:, conveniently close to the town centre, boasts excellent amenities and a welcoming vibe. but for those seeking a touch of luxury in nature, Old Oaks Touring, Camping & Glamping Park in Wick is an adults-only destination with environmentally-friendly glamping options.

Bob's Field offers an authentic camping experience with wild settings and bell tents near Beckery Island, while the Paddington Farm Trust: at Glastonbury Tor's base, is a 43-acre organic farm offering various accommodations suitable for groups and families.

For a quieter, eco-conscious camping option, Dragon Willows Farm: caters to self-contained campers with its peaceful environment. Lastly, Garslade Farm Campsite is an adult-only location on a working organic farm, perfect for those looking to unwind.

Hotels and B&Bs:

Glastonbury boasts an eclectic mix of accommodations, ensuring visitors can find the perfect place to stay, ranging from opulent bed and breakfasts to quaint cottages and historic hotels.

The Travelodge Glastonbury provides a comfortable, no-frills stay, as does the Premier Inn Glastonbury, ensuring guests have a pleasant stay without stretching their finances.

Away from the chain hotels, The Glastonbury Townhouse treats guests to luxury and outstanding service, making for an unforgettable bed and breakfast experience. For those who value space and the convenience of self-catering, Middlewick Holiday Cottages are the ideal choice, offering the comforts of home amidst a picturesque setting.

The Covenstead provides a unique and magical stay with its witchcraft and pagan-themed rooms, while The George & Pilgrim –invites visitors to delve into Glastonbury's history, being one of the town's most ancient buildings, where every corner has a story to tell (and maybe even a ghost or two.)

Car Parks

For those attending the festivities, Glastonbury provides several car parking options to accommodate visitors:

• St Johns Car Park (BA6 9LJ)
• St Dunstan's Car Park (BA6 9EH)
• Butt Close Car Park (BA6 9HY)
• Silver Street Car Park (BA6 8BS)
• Norbins Road Car Park (BA6 9JG)
• Herbies Field (event Car Park) (BA6 9LF)

Visitors are kindly reminded to park responsibly and consider the local community by using designated car parks. This not only helps in keeping the streets clear for the processions but also contributes to the overall success and enjoyment of the celebrations for everyone involved.

Beltane in Glastonbury (File photo/Nub News)

Embrace the Magic of Beltane with Respect and Joy

As we celebrate Beltane in Glastonbury, embracing the warmth and joy of summer's arrival, let's do so with respect for the town, its residents, and fellow visitors. Plan your visit, book your accommodation early, and choose parking wisely to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.