Spirit Night

History

Perhaps originally imported from the Welsh Calan Mai, the Spring Court's practice of Spirit Night has been in use nearly as long as the Court's founding. Tradition states that it began as a chance to let go of unwanted desires, but as with many things the original meaning has changed. In the present day, many cast unwanted desires into the fire in the hopes of learning of a path to what they truly seek.

Execution

Just before sundown, the attendees of Spirit Night gather in one of London's green spaces to erect a maypole. This portion of the celebration is not terribly dissimilar to other Mayday celebrations one might see, save that the pole tends to serve as an effigy of a Changeling's Keeper (usually decided by a drawing of lots), and the tassels of the pole therefor represent rope or chains.

The daylight portion of the celebration is festive and cheerful, with drinks, food and drugs abound. By sundown, the effigy has been thoroughly wrapped and the revelers take a more somber air. The Spring Monarch and his or her Knights light torches, and set fire to the effigy.

Then, one by one, attendees step forward and throw something symbolizing that which they do not want -- usually a desire or want of some kind, but sometimes memories or relationships or something else -- into the flames. They state their desires openly and aloud, with an understanding that there will be no judgement (and, in truth, it is rare for even the biggest gossip of Spring to spread word of this).

The Spring Knights do this last, followed by the Spring Monarch.

Then, should all go to plan, the celebration begins anew, though always just a little more sedate than it had been before.

Components and tools

The maypole/effigy is composed of wicker, and usually is constructed as a joint task by Spring's more artistically inclined Changelings. Booze, food, etc. are all provided by the Spring Monarch and Knights.

There are no rules for the items one might throw into the fire, and while all attendees are expected to bring something it is not strictly required.

Participants

The Spring Court, of course, attends. Any member of the Freehold in good standing with Spring is also welcome to participate.

Observance

Spirit Night is celebrated on the evening of April 30th every year, and ends at midnight.

Primary Related Location

London