The History of Spring Customs and Rituals - Traditions of the British Isles

Christmas Around The World!

The History of Spring Customs and Rituals - Traditions of the British Isles

Helena England, BA Hons, PGCE, MA

Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(189)

Discover the way Celts and others celebrated spring festivals like Imbolc and Beltane (May Day) in the UK, and find out about some stranger Easter customs too.

Class Experience

US Grade 4 - 7

In this one-time class we will look at the pagan festivals that took place as the Celtic people welcomed the return of spring to the British Isles after the long, dark winter.  Come and find out how Imbolc (the first spring festival) and then Beltane were celebrated in the four nations of the British Isles, with fires, food and rituals to encourage health, wealth and a good season for growing crops.  We will also look at  La Na Caillich, April Fool's Day, well dressing, Jack-in-the-Green,...

Students will have an understanding of the origins and traditions of a range of spring festivals from the UK.

I am a qualified teacher in the UK and have been teaching history to students for over 25 years,  I have an Advanced Level qualification in history, and also undertake research as part of my current role.

Homework Offered
Assessments Offered
Grades Offered

A fact file sheet will be sent in advance so that learners can record what they have learnt.  This can be completed in class or after class.  It is, of course, optional.

My sources include but are not limited to:
Superstitions of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, by John Gregorson Campbell
Feasts and Festivals - Catherine Storr
Stations of the Sun - Ron Hutton
Celtic Mythology - Philip Freeman

Available times

Pacific

Table of available sections

Meet the teacher

Helena England, BA Hons, PGCE, MA

Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(189)

Hello everyone!
My name is Helena, and I live in the UK.  It is my pleasure to share with my learners some of the best/worst/quirky bits of Britain through my own nerdiness for history and baking.  Enthusiasm, positivity, patience, joy, respect...