Seen as a purifier and healer, people would have walked, danced and jumped over the fire, while farmers would also have driven their cattle between bonfires to cleanse and protect them before being put out into the fields.

placeholder image — Seen as a purifier and healer, people would have walked, danced and jumped over the fire, while farmers would also have driven their cattle between bonfires to cleanse and protect them before being put out into the fields.

In Pictures: May Day dawn welcomed by Morris Men and Pagans

By Staff reporter

Published 1st May 2024, 12:17 GMT

Updated 1st May 2024, 12:25 GMT

Dawn May Day celebrations have seen a riot of ritual and festivities on display across the UK.

And Celtic Pagans took part in Beltane celebrations at Glastonbury Chalice Well to herald the start of the month.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Gallery Glastonbury

© 2026 Formpress Publishing LTD. All rights reserved.Terms and Conditions Privacy notice