Calan Mai
History
The Calan Mai is a celebration of the beginning spring. It started during a time when getting through a winter was difficult because of food shortages and lack of appropriate shelter. The Calan Mai was a celebration of life, of the coming summer (which signified the planting and harvesting seasons), and an honoring of those who died over the winter.
As technology progressed to provide food and shelter for everyone, the Calan Mai is still celebration of life and of the coming summer. While honoring those who have crossed over to the Whippled-Nethers, it is now also a remembrance of the trials the people of Tangwyn have come through to get to where they are now.
Execution
The Calan Mai celebration is takes place on the first day of spring and is celebrated in a field, usually one where the Starbloom Flower grows. A large wooden pole is erected in the middle of the field, and decorated with ribbons and flowers. Five bonfires are lit throughout the day: at dawn, at midmorning, at noon, at midafternoon, and at twilight. Prayers are said to Morgance for blessing the upcoming planting and harvesting, for coming through the winter, and for the dead. Music is played, food is shared, and dancing is enjoyed.
Because this tradition has almost always been done with the Starbloom Flower, this bloom has become a symbol of Calan Mai.
Components and tools
- Pole: A tall wooden pole erected at the center of the field, decorated with colorful ribbons and Starbloom Flowers. The maypole represents the connection between earth and sky, a symbol of life and renewal.
- Ribbons and Flowers: Long, vibrant ribbons are attached to the pole, while garlands of Starbloom Flowers are used for decoration. Participants also wear flowers in their hair or woven into crowns.
- Bonfire Materials: Wood and kindling are gathered for the five ritual bonfires. Traditionally, specific types of wood are chosen for their symbolic properties.
- Musical Instruments: Moorasa, feaofeife, and stringed instruments are central to the celebration, providing lively music for dancing and ceremonial chants.
- Food and Drink: A communal feast is an integral part of the celebration. Seasonal dishes, baked goods, and herbal meads are shared among attendees.
Participants
- The Herald of Spring: This individual opens the ceremony at dawn by lighting the first bonfire and offering the first prayer to Morgance. Often adorned in white and green robes, they embody the spirit of spring.
- The Fire Keepers: A group of five chosen individuals responsible for tending the bonfires throughout the day. Each Fire Keeper is tasked with lighting one of the bonfires and leading the prayers associated with it.
- The Musicians: A troupe of skilled performers who provide music for dancing and ceremonies. They lead the procession around the maypole and play during key moments of the celebration.
- The Dancers: Volunteers, often young adults, perform the ribbon dance around the maypole. Their weaving movements symbolize unity, the cycles of nature, and the interconnection of life.
- The Feast Organizer: This person coordinates the communal meal, ensuring food and drink are plentiful and that offerings for Morgance and the departed are prepared.
- The Elder Speaker: An elder of the community delivers a speech at twilight, reflecting on the trials of the past winter, honoring the deceased, and expressing hopes for the coming season.
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