As I read over the plans for our rituals this year, which the Ritual Team has been diligently working on, I was struck by the focus on duality. When planning a Beltane gathering, I’m always considering the balance of the programming. If the event is, for example, light on rituals or on workshops, that’s something that my team and I work to fix. I love the concept of playing with duality by dancing with it.

When I write these letters, I’m usually at the end stages of planning the event. Most of the programming is set. The grid is mostly finalized. The balance of programming is pretty much where it will be for this year’s gathering. As I look over the schedule now, I have no idea how I will choose between the awesome offerings. There are new presenters, old presenters we haven’t seen in a while, our usual suspects, and of course newcomers. What a bounty we are gifted with this year! Thanks to all of you who are reading these words, we get to have an amazing time experiencing and learning together!

Welcome to CAMP!

~Cat C.

The Main Rituals: Ride the Wave!

Our Beltane Rituals

“The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, join the dance.” – Alan Watts

Change is coming. Our astrologers and diviners urge us to be ready for it, to find the courage and clarity to flow with it and tap into its power. Will we answer the call?

Transformation is at once beautiful and terrible; just like our Gods, just like our Elements, just like us. This Beltane, our rituals bring us together for the sacred union of embodiment and ecstasy, embracing our individual and collective power to harness the winds and ride the waves with our whole authentic magical selves.

Opening Ritual - Thursday, 3:15pm - 4:30pm, Ritual Field

Our beloved magic-soaked land summons us in joyful reunion. But amid our hugs and hellos comes an oracle as sure as a red sky at morning – transformation is at hand, and we can be carried or crushed by it. In order to move with this wave, we must embrace it and each other.

Calling upon the Elements, we honor their powers to transform both by creation and destruction. Invoking our Gods and spirits, we honor their interplay of evolution and entropy, love and loss, pleasure and pain. We name these dualities as our allies and, with our bodies and voices, co-create the energetic vessel that holds and carries us this weekend through the uncharted waters of change.

Maypole Dance - Friday, 3:15pm - 4:30pm, Ritual Field

Beltane’s merry tradition of the Maypole returns! Come one and all to dance and weave our wishes for abundance, love, lust, play, and creation around our sacred symbol. We invite musicians of all kinds to join our drummers and fill the air with glorious rhythm for the dancers. If you can’t or don’t wish to actually dance the Maypole, you’re invited to hold space with us and add your energy however you like—dance in place, shout, sing, wave banners, twirl fans, or simply watch! Never danced the Maypole? Don’t worry, our Fool is ready to give everyone a refresher. Let’s charge our Maypole with love and pleasure.

Main Ritual - Saturday, 3:15pm, meet at Upper Fire Circle, processing to Ritual Field

The wave of transformation swells at the Upper Fire Circle, with a procession that rolls down the land with a growing roar, sweeping all in its path along its length, carrying us as we dance on its cresting foam. The last of us to join will ride the wave at the path above our ritual field as it swirls over the grass and fills it with energy and music.

As we come together tonight to revel in the creative sensuality of Beltane, let’s reveal to each other the fantastic truths of who we choose to be as agents of change. Are you monstrous, or divine? Chaotic, or disciplined? Wild, weird, stealthy, polished, sparkling, demonic, or daemonic? What is your role in the awakening of humanity and the emergence of new ways of being? We invite you to embody that role in your appearance!

We’ve tapped into the power of allying with change, and now we flow with it, breathe with it, play with it, and collectively dream with it. Before long, our magical vessel fills and we spill out across the land to spend the night making love, making music, making mischief, making magic – a night of celebration before the hard work of transformation truly begins.

(Anyone wishing to join the procession is encouraged to bring blue, green, white, or silver banners or drapes to “make waves”, to bring instruments or noisemakers, or to carry or wear anything nautical/watery – mermaid headdresses, shark hats, pirate flags, toy boats, etc.)

Closing Ritual: - Sunday, 10:30 - 11:30am, Ritual Field

As we embrace dualities as our partners in change, we encounter one more – that of union and separation. We’ve weathered the waves together, and now we awake on a far distant shore, ready to explore the new ground beneath our feet, along paths that carry us apart. Where they will lead is a mystery that can only be known through experiencing it … but we hope they still lead us back together, to our beloved Ramblewood, once again next year. We reflect on the changes we face and soak up the energy we’ve raised together, to fuel that work. For now, we dismantle and release our vessel, allowing us to flow freely back into our everyday lives so that we can begin to bring a new world into being.

This year’s main rituals are presented by:

Rebecca Rose Vassy is a priestess of Aphrodite-Venus and a loving devotee of Dionysus who is overjoyed to be on the THE Beltane ritual team once again. She was the head of Community Service for many years at Free Spirit Gathering, the Keeper of the Temple of Affection at Fires of Venus, and has been a frequent presenter at FSG, Beltane, Mythic Journeys, and many other festivals and organizations. She is a writer, event planner, and sex/relationship coach and educator in the DC area with The Pincus Center, an inclusive sex-positive mental wellness practice; an author of urban fantasy and erotica; and in her alter ego as Diva Darling, she’s a burlesque performer/teacher and producer/host of Smut Slams in DC and Baltimore, monthly open mic storytelling shows about sex. Follow her at divanations.com.

Shane Amerman (he/him/they) aka Silver, is an ecstatic practitioner and a member of the Potomac Seidr Guild Ondvegisulur, an oracular practice guild. He was a long time volunteer and staff member at past FSG, Beltane, THE Beltane and other festivals and events. He has participated in and helped produce a number of rituals over the years at Ramblewood events, and he is excited to be back at THE Beltane to raise some energy with you all again.

Martha Smith (she/her), aka Puck, is an astrologer and diviner, witch of all trades, rope lover, and cat wrangler. She is a 2nd Degree Initiate of Blue Star Wicca, a devotee of Brighid, Arawn, Hekate, and Persephone, a longtime FSG staff member, and a presenter at both FSG and THE Beltane. Martha and her husband, Steve Robinson, live on a hillside in the southern Finger Lakes, where they and their four cats lead interesting lives. When Martha’s not in the kitchen making an amazing stir-fry or a fruit liqueur, she’s in the garden tending basil, peppers, and rhubarb, weeding the perennials, and swearing at the mugwort. Martha is excited to be on THE Beltane’s ritual team again, and is looking forward to another energetic and engaging ritual experience. You can find Martha online at @cards.table.tarot (Instagram) and at cardstabletarot.com.

Rev. Diane Emerald Bronowicz-Egelhoff was ordained as an Interfaith/Interspiritual Minister in 2020, and she has served as a Priestess and Leader in her religious and spiritual communities, both local and international, for 20+ years. An accomplished ligurgist, ritualist, and bard, she is especially called to facilitate connection and foster magic by writing and performing, personalized rites of passage, primarily within underserved and marginalized communities, but also for all people who want to mark their lives’ turning points in a spiritual way but do not have a set practice or congregation to which to turn. Her personal practice incorporates Druid, Wiccan, and Hellenic traditions and the modalities of trance, seership, scholarship, and magic to honor the Gods, the Ancestors, and the Spirits of this World while acknowledging the cycles of Earth, Moon and Sun.

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What’s Going on Wednesday Evening?

Open Playspace Hours - 8pm to 12midnight

Opening & Maypole Ritual Volunteer Prep with The Ritual Team - 8:30pm, Dance Pavilion

Want to help make the magic? Join the Ritual Team at the Dance Pavilion to volunteer your time and assistance in preparing for Thursday’s Opening Ritual, and Friday’s Maypole Dance.

Welcome Fire Circle - 9pm, Upper Fire Circle

Get warm with us as we shake off the dust and knock off the rust around a fire. Come mingle and lend your energy to shaking and waking up each other and our sacred circle!

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Thursday 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Connection/Intimacy through Body Positioning with Bosch - Playspace

Using quiet body manipulation/positioning, this class is designed to help tops and bottoms practice power exchange in one of its most basic forms: physical pressure/accommodation. Tops will practice exerting non-verbal control over their bottoms by gently manipulating their bodies in ways that create a small amount of pressure. Bottoms must accommodate by positioning themselves in a way that relieves that pressure. Bottoms will practice mindful, present submission, existing in the moment, being aware of their bodies, and following the lead of their tops by accommodating but not anticipating. Together, both tops and bottoms will learn how to create a safe, intimate space where they can practice this “dance” together, honing their D/s skills and connecting. Blindfolds and simple wrist bondage can be helpful but are not required.  For those who want to participate in the exercises for this class, please bring a partner with whom you’ve negotiated non-sexual touch and intimacy prior to the class.  We will spend a lot of time on the floor, so a blanket or yoga mat is recommended.

Love the One You’re With: Body Image and Self-Love with The Temple of Dionysus - Back of Dining Hall

What do you see when you look in the mirror? Do you see the wonder of the divine cosmos, the god or goddess incarnate? Or do you see all of your flaws? Most of the time we focus on the scars, the faults, the problems. We constantly tell ourselves negative messages about our bodies, over and over again reinforcing every criticism we’ve ever heard and worse. Changes in our bodies as we age make this even more challenging. But you only get one body in this lifetime! It’s the center of your sexy self! Love the one you’re with! In this inspiring and practical workshop, Wisdom and Wordsmith will share some of their own experiences, from surviving breast cancer and a double mastectomy to coping with erectile dysfunction, along with methods for how can we feel like our most sexy selves, even when our bodies don’t want to cooperate. The presentation will include an interactive meditation and will close with a movement practice to help improve body image and self-love.

Exploring Erotic Hypnosis with HypnoStory - Barn

Curious about erotic hypnosis and want to know more? Come find out why HypnoStory calls erotic hypnosis "the hot sauce of kink", and why panda calls it a "kink of connection".  This will be part Q&A with lots of demos, introducing the basics, and showing you the infinite possibilities!  90 minutes.

Thursday 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Exploratorium with PaulES and Savory - Playspace

Curious about kink? Curious about some particular kinky activity? Come to the Exploratorium and get a taste of what you're curious about from our variety of experienced and knowledgeable presenters, without having to engage in an entire scene to find out what you like (or don't like) about the activity.

Grounding with Trampling  with b0ihazard - Back of Dining Hall

…will not be held, due to circumstances beyond our control.

Grounding, while so necessary and fundamental, is also sometimes such a bother to do at all. Much like basic hygiene, neglecting to perform it can make us uncomfortable and not very nice to be around for others. But don’t fret. Louis b0ihazard is here to show you how to not only ground using a partner, but how to ground through a partner who’s lying underneath you. What could be more natural, when opening up the stem of our energy, from crown to roots, as above so below, than to have a partner physically above or below you? Join Louis b0ihazard as he teaches you how to combine getting some physical and spiritual balance. (We’ll be using some trampling techniques but also some massage skills and smothering/rough body play.)  No one is expected to be an expert in grounding, but this class was developed for folks who can already ground themselves. Please be well-rested, hydrated, fed, and able to consent for this class, bring a partner you pre-negotiated with to practice on, and a towel. This class is hands-on, but it’s cool just to watch. If you have ability concerns in mind, please contact the presenter.

The Ritual BDSM Toolkit with Dan & dawn - Cabin S&T

Join Dan & dawn as they discuss (and demo aspects of) Ritual BDSM. They’ll give examples and ideas of various BDSM rituals and assist you in how to create your own. From focuses on transformation, self-exploration, or rites of passage, Dan & dawn will share with you about the many rituals they have participated in, as well as the ones they’ve led. They will talk about incorporating elements, focus, setting intention, and what to do when things don’t go as planned.

Getting Ready Ritual: Letting Go of the Mundane and Intention Setting with Cliodhna Kahli-Morgan Sapphire, HP - Barn

So often we rush into camp, stressed and with a million mundane things on our mind. It can be hard to relax and “get in the mood” and sometimes it feels like so much of our time here has passed us by before we can feel fully in the present. Join us for a ritual to address this very thing. We will work on letting go of the non-essential thoughts and feelings we are entering with and centering ourselves for the abundance of Beltane.

Thursday 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Recovering in the Lifestyle - Barn

If you follow a 12 step program, and need to talk to someone on campus that is in the same boat as you with variable ages of sobriety, come down and join us for an hour.

What’s Going on Thursday Evening?

Open Playspace Hours - 8pm - 12midnight

Sacred Sex: Elevate through Giving and Receiving with Dan and dawn - 8pm, Cabin S&T

Dan and dawn lead a workshop on how to help make your sexual experiences more. More connected, more intimate, more sacred, and more fun! After a quick discussion of some existing examples of rituals and methodology,  they will lead the class in some simple (and some more advanced) techniques to help you create your own sacred sexual experience!

Thursday Night Fire Circle: Be the Light, Bring the Light, Share the Light - 9pm, Upper Fire Circle

In this time of tumultuousness on a global level, tonight we will call for, invoke, and perpetuate the energies of peace, love, calm, compassion, understanding, unity, planetary awareness, and harmony. We will lend our energy towards diminishing that which is not serving us and actively working against us: hate, bigotry, greed. We will strive to create a better balance and equilibrium toward the best possible future.

Whiskey & Philosophy (BYO) with MonsignorX - 9pm-10:30pm, Back of the Dining Hall

A chance to discuss Whiskey, Philosophy, and our intent for things at Beltane, and to celebrate achievements as a round of toasts with whiskies of various kinds.  Bring your favorite along!

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Friday 10am - 12noon

Rope Bondage Refresher: The Basics with Bosch - Playspace

This is a class paced for beginners but relevant for anyone who needs to brush up on the basics of rope bondage. We will cover intention and negotiation for rope play, and some basic skills: the Somerville Bowline, single- & double-column ties, the chest harness. If there’s time we will have some fun using what we have learned to practice combining ties and improvise. After taking this class you will have general safety knowledge and a few basic skills that will get you on your way to start having fun with rope bondage.  Bring 2-3 ropes 20-30 feet in length.  Some of the ties will be easier if you have someone to tie, but self-tying is encouraged.

Rage, Anger-Based Scenes, and Ordeals: Work with Rage and Anger with MonsignorX - Front Porch of Dining Hall

This class will discuss a variety of ways to play with rage for a positive result, with a touch on spiritual elements, and various pitfalls and concerns. The class will include examples of multiple ordeals, risks, and various methods for dealing with anger in scenes.

Astrology Basics for Kinksters with Martha Smith - Back of Dining Hall

What can astrology tell you about your sexy, kinky self? Plenty! This class will cover the basics of astrology, with a focus on your Sun, Moon, and Rising Sign. (If you know yours, great! If not, no worries - we’ll calculate them in class.) We’ll start with an overview of the Zodiac signs, then we’ll do an in-class exercise in groups of 2 (bring a friend or be willing to pair up). Worksheets and handouts for the exercise will be provided. Please bring a pen or pencil.

Botanical Beatings 101: A Class in Rose Flogging with Polyphonist - Dance Pavilion

Most people concur that roses are gorgeous. However, did you know that they are more than just beautiful decorations … they’re a fun, versatile bouquet of sensation! In this class, learn how the most ouchy part of the rose isn’t always the thorn. We’ll go over the basics of how to administer a rose flogging, as well as how to engage all the senses in this innovative method of impact play. Topics include: the selection process of rose ; a live, in-class negotiation; safety precautions; techniques; and a live demo flogging. If time allows, class participants who choose to will have the opportunity to either feel or administer a brief rose flogging with instructor supervision and guidance.

When Tragedy Strikes Your Polycule with The Temple of Dionysus - Cabin S&T

We talk a lot in ethical non-monogamy about “what ifs,” but when something truly terrible happens, how does it really work? This will be a roundtable discussion about death and grieving in nonmonogamy. We lost our partner, the Bard of Providence, when he died suddenly in January 2023. We learned a lot from this experience and are still learning as we live each day as three instead of four. We welcome others to share their experiences as well.

Erotic Hypnosis 101 (Part 1) with HypnoStory - Barn

Hands-free orgasms, transformation, surprising your partner, building a deeper and more intimate connection - what do these all have in common? They can be done through erotic hypnosis! This class will provide lecture, discussion and lots of demos, enabling participants to go home and try it out for themselves safely and effectively! Topics covered include: the process of hypnosis; safety and ethics; negotiation; hypnotic language; and creative scene building. There will be a brief partnered exercise, so please either come with someone you are comfortable working with, or be prepared to pair up in class.  Please note that this is a prerequisite to attending the second half of this two-part class.

Friday 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Healing & Hot Wax with Kate - Playspace

In the path of Ordeal, there are many ways to combine healing and physical experience. Join Kate as she leads a guided healing meditation, using hot melted wax on the body to release the mind to manifest Intent and connect to the Divine. Bring a towel or ground covering to go under a provided dropcloth, and something to use as a blindfold. Donations to offset the cost of supplies ($5 per person/$10 per couple) are requested, or you may choose to bring your own low-temperature candle/s if you wish (“7-day” glass-column novena candles from the international-foods section of your local grocery; you will want at least three candles). You may bring a partner/s or attend solo; solo attendees will be paired randomly (with consent) to the extent that even numbers are possible; partnerships of more than two people should be advised that the meditation will only be run twice, so that each partner may take a turn giving and receiving.  Please sign up on the sheet at HQ in advance, before 12noon on Friday; attendance is strictly limited to ensure adequate room for all participants.

Safer Containers: Keeping it Healthy with Bosch - Front Porch of Dining Hall

One way of describing a healthy, responsible BDSM/kink practice is "exploring scary/wrong/risky things within safer containers." Kink is a "smorgasbord" of activities, fetishes, and experiences. We will talk collaboratively about the diversity in desired activities and desired experiences. When it comes to practicing BDSM, there is no "right" way to practice them and experience them. However, there tends to be some agreed-upon "wrong" ways!  We will discuss a framework for how to think about constructing safer containers to explore various kinks/fetishes. We will not go into depth about each of their specific emotional and physical safety concerns; however, we will discuss how each of us can develop our own personal guidelines for negotiation and establishing risk-aware consent and setting boundaries based on our personal risk profiles.  This class will have ample opportunity for a collaborative discussion.  Bring and share your kinks and desires. Share your successes and challenges with keeping them in safer containers.

Nourishing Your Submission with Polyphonist - Back of Dining Hall

This class is for those who want to nourish and explore their submission but may not have an active partner. A safe space will be facilitated to discuss practical ways of engaging with your submission, deepening understanding of what kinds of submissive experiences you seek, and exercising your submission to full strength. We will share personal experiences and tips and tricks. Paper and writing implements are recommended.

Clothing Optional Nature Walk with The Temple of Dionysus - Meet promptly at Dance Pavillion

Dionysos’ cult famously ran around naked in the woods. On this clothing optional nature hike, Alyx the Amused will discuss ancient Greek nymphs and their hiding places! Connect with the spirits of nature as we rediscover the beauty of the world around us. Footwear is required.

Queer Sex Magic with Thista Minai - Cabin S&T

Sexual energy is a potent source of magical power, but generating that power is too often discussed purely in terms of polarity. Let’s journey outside the binary and explore other ways of generating sexual energy. We’ll briefly examine a Queer take on polarity, then dive into resonance, balance, synergy, harmony, and dissonance as intentional tools that are sometimes even better choices to power our magical intentions.

Erotic Hypnosis 101 (Part 2) with HypnoStory - Barn

Hands-free orgasms, transformation, surprising your partner, building a deeper and more intimate connection - what do these all have in common? They can be done through erotic hypnosis! This class will provide lecture, discussion and lots of demos, enabling participants to go home and try it out for themselves safely and effectively! Topics covered include: the process of hypnosis; safety and ethics; negotiation; hypnotic language; and creative scene building. There will be a brief partnered exercise, so please either come with someone you are comfortable working with, or be prepared to pair up in class.  Please note that part 1 is a prerequisite to attending this part of class.

Friday 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Fireplay: From Theatrics to Healing with Supervised Lab Time with FireOnWater - Playspace

Have you ever wanted to learn fireplay? Do you want to learn different techniques and styles or how it could be used for ritual or woo practice? Learn how to do fireplay, how different techniques can be used, and maybe a new trick or two! Bring a partner if you would like to try topping or bottoming; alternatively, you can practice on your leg! We’ll learn fire wands, cupping, towel, and flash cotton, as well as a way to safely work in hot/cold temperature play for a full 101 experience. There will be enough supplies for several people to practice at once. From theatrics to healing, you're invited to get lost in the flames.

Followed by Supervised Lab Time: Fireplay, while often warm and comforting in FireOnWater’s style, is still a form of edge play. If you would love the chance to practice fire topping/bottoming but in a supervised capacity with a top that has almost a decade of experience, this is the lab for you. Bring a friend (old or new) to get the chance to practice your technique. There will be enough supplies for several people to practice at once, or bring your own.

Magickal Properties of Correspondences: Giving Your Magick More Umph! with James Welch - Front Porch of Dining Hall

In Wicca, working with correspondences means matching the intent of the work you are undertaking with the appropriate symbols, colors, deities, and powers. This is also called “sympathetic magick.” As Pagans, we often speak about the “Web of Life,” and the interconnectedness of all life. If we think of correspondences as a web, it provides us with a structure upon which we can weave our intentions. In this workshop, you will learn more about the interconnection among magickal correspondences and how that information can be used to give your Magick more Umph!

Laying on Sadistic Hands, Part One: Accessing Your Shadow with Pain with b0ihazard - Back of Dining Hall

…will not be held, due to circumstances beyond our control.

“Shadow Work” comes in many flavors: banishment, curses and their removal, or reclaiming agency after trauma or loss. Often in life, we must push our shadows down to appear palatable, professional, or functional. Repeated lack of connection to one’s shadow can mean outbursts of uncontrolled rage or sadness or sometimes feeling hollow, or even disconnected from our bodies. Having a rich connection with one’s shadow can feel balancing, healing, and necessary. Accessing that connection, however, can be difficult and messy. Therefore, this class is for doing messy, difficult work around trauma, and removing the blockages that separate folks from their shadows. This class will be part discussion and part hands-on exercise, and we will be using pressure-point massage techniques and ritual to honor our shadows. Please be able to consent and communicate, well-rested, hydrated, and fed for this class. Bring a partner you pre-negotiated with to practice on, and a towel. This class is hands-on, but it’s cool just to watch. If you have ability concerns in mind, please contact the presenter.

Sacred, Not Secret: An Integrated Approach to Sexual (R)Evolution with Christine Laplante - Cabin S&T

Based on Christine’s book by the same name, this class explores both Eastern and Western concepts of human development, particularly in regard to our sexuality. We will explore how an integrated approach to sexual expression widens our experiences. This class will explore from our earliest sexual experiences to now, and how our sexual selves have developed through conditioning, programming and self-evolution.  

Sensation Play 101 with Cliodhna Kahli-Morgan Sapphire, HP - Barn

This will be a combination lecture/demo session which covers the basics of sensation play: what it is, why we might utilize it, how we can negotiate a scene, and various ideas for assembling a kit of toys and tools in a creative and economical fashion. (Hint: the dollar store or hardware aisle can be your best friend here and you probably already have lots of things sitting around your house!) Feel free to bring a notebook and pen to jot down thoughts and ideas. Since this is an informational session, it is not necessary to bring a partner, but we hope that the session will provide inspiration for future interactions.

Friday 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Recovering in the Lifestyle - Barn

If you follow a 12 step program, and need to talk to someone on campus that is in the same boat as you with variable ages of sobriety, come down and join us for an hour.

What’s going on Friday Evening?

Open Playspace Hours - 8pm to 12midnight

Rage as a Form of Love: The Transformative Power of Divine Feminine Rage with Emma Zonn - Back of the Dining Hall

The intangible concepts of Justice, Revenge, Victory, and Righteous Fury have been anthropomorphized in our myths and legends throughout history, frequently in female bodies. Yet the culture of white, cis, heteronormative, patriarchal, capitalist, puritanical Christian supremacy that dominates the United States tells us that these are not “feminine” qualities. How do we reclaim our birthright to exist and thrive as multifaceted, vibrant, complex individuals from this culture of stereotypes, tropes, and restrictive norms? How can rage be used to heal and strengthen our relationships with ourselves and with others? This lecture will share examples of the history of legendary feminine fury - from the ancient to the modern - discuss the power in “monstrosity” for marginalized genders and sexualities in horror and beyond, and provide a lens for dismantling patriarchal binaries and accessing your own feminine rage, no matter your gender identity, as a form of love for self, and others.

Cabaret Night with LunaBear - 8pm to 12midnight, Cabin OPQR

Do you miss Sexperiments? Are you longing to perform for an appreciative audience? Come to the Cabaret! We will be open and ready for fun Friday and Saturday night. Bring your sexy self, dress up, dance, gyrate, tease, strip, and get your groove on, show us your style. We will provide music; you chose your song. We will be open and ready to aid you in your need to express your extrovert self. Even if you don’t want to perform, we need an audience to perform to, so come on out and watch the show!

Main & Closing Ritual Volunteer Prep with The Ritual Team - 8:30pm, Dance Pavilion

Want to help make the magic? Join the Ritual Team at the Dance Pavilion to volunteer your time and assistance in preparing for Saturday’s Main Ritual, and Sunday’s Closing Ritual.

Friday Night Fire Circle: Why We Do What We Do - 9pm, Upper Fire Circle

As we are reminded what Beltane brings us, we polish our leathers, rise to our best posture and come together. Tonight we remind ourselves of our Elemental basics. Come bring your focus to the rhythm of the ritual and beyond as we begin our season.

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Saturday 10am - 12noon

Sensual Fire Cupping, Part 1: Technical with ZsaZsa - Playspace

This course will talk about the theory and practice of fire cupping, wear and tear and maintenance of your gear, and fun extras to set the mood and have a great time on and at the table. Bring paper and something to write with to take notes. Have experience and gear already? Bring any of these you have: Fire cups; fire wands; isopropyl alcohol (70% only!); metal receptacle to hold your isopropyl; two hand towels; wax candles; cooking coconut oil in a jar. One large blanket, or beach towel for your companion.  Aloe vera aftercare burn gel with minimum 3% aloe content.

How Pagans Learn: Teaching, Training, and Mentoring with Thista Minai - Front Porch of Dining Hall

Many prominent Pagan educators have pointed out that all of us, regardless of age, learn as children when we approach divinity. In this workshop, we will discuss how theories in early childhood education pertain to adult spiritual development. We will explore the differences between declarative and experiential knowledge, examine schemas and cognitive dissonance, and explain how these and other concepts apply to how we process spiritual experiences.

Quick Divination Session with Martha Smith - Back of Dining Hall

Is there something important that you’re trying to put into perspective? A Tarot reading could shed some light on it! Sign up for a Quick Divination Session with Martha at the check-in desk (space is limited to ten participants, with priority for those who signed up in advance). You’ll receive a 10-minute session on the topic of your choice, using Tarot, oracle decks, and other divination tools. Bring your phone to take a picture and/or record your reading. Your reading will be private, but you may bring someone with you, if you’d like their support or input. All readings will be confidential.

Magickal Properties of Wood: Trees, Shrubs, and Roots with James Welch - Dance Pavillion

Nearly every culture throughout history has attributed magickal properties to woods. Some hold one type of wood to be sacred, while others believe that all wood has magickal properties. We think we know the magickal associations for the most well-known woods used for magickal purposes, but there is so much more to learn! In this newly expanded workshop, we will discuss the well-known woods, but we will also cover a “forest of trees” with magickal properties. Jim, from WizardsTower, will be our guide, as he has researched the properties of over 100 different species of trees. Come explore the Lore, the Mysteries, the Magickal Properties of Wood.

Sensual Spanking with Dan and dawn - Cabin S&T

Dan and dawn, a lifestyle couple since 2001, will demonstrate the art of erotic spanking. If you are interested in using it as a style of foreplay or as an act within itself, join us as we discuss some of the ways to get started, how to approach your lover, being the center of attention, hand techniques, bringing focus to the relationship, safe words, the pleasure of pain, spanking toys, and aftercare.

Clothing and Cool Stuff Swap with Webcat - Cabin E&F

Please bring clothing and cool stuff you want to give away. Fetishwear, festival wear, lovely clothing you don't want any more, ritual or fetish/kink tools you don’t want any more. Make sure it is clean and in good condition. (60 minutes; 10am - 11am)

Saturday 1pm - 3pm

Sensual Fire Cupping, Part 2: Demonstration & Lab Time with ZsaZsa - Playspace

View a demonstration of fire cupping, followed by open lab time building on knowledge and skills learned in Part 1.  Presenter reserves the right to inspect gear based on safety best practices.  First come, first serve for table space - have a massage table of your own?  Bring it with you!

The Gentleman Surrenders to the Lady or: Strong and Functional Male Submission with MonsignorX - Front Porch of Dining Hall

A presentation and discussion of positive expressions of male submission, the challenges and pitfalls, and approaches to creating rewarding relationships. This is aimed at both submissives and those who love them. Both sides of the equation will be addressed. Elements will include: Archetypes, structures and language with an initial focus on the concept of the gentleman; Pitfalls; Self-image; Strength and value; Types of submission; Communication.

Laying on Sadistic Hands, Part Two: Banishment with Pain with b0ihazard - Back of Dining Hall

…will not be held, due to circumstances beyond our control.

In the follow-up to “Laying on Sadistic Hands, Part One: Accessing Your Shadow,” we will be using our connections to our shadows to clear house. Banishment means two things here: 1) we need a purification, and 2) a plain ol’ regular purification just won’t cut it. If our homes were infested with pests, we’d get an exterminator. But what to do when our bodies are inhabited by spiritual gunk? When smudging won’t cut it, what can we do? Banishment is the hardcore, tried and true course of action we’ll explore in this hands-on hand-laying workshop. We will be using pressure point massage techniques, but also some punching, trampling, and other rough body play. While no one is expected to be an expert, this class was developed in two parts and part one will prepare for part two. Please be able to consent and communicate, well-rested, hydrated, and fed for this class. Bring a partner you pre-negotiated with to practice on, and a towel. This class is hands-on, but it’s cool just to watch. If you have ability concerns in mind, please contact the presenter.

Dancing Your Divine Nature with The Temple of Dionysus - Dance Pavillion

The body connects to mind and spirit.  In this active workshop, we will use dance to purify our minds to recognize our own true nature as beings of wisdom, compassion & power.  It is not an erotic dance per se, but rather an embodiment of spiritual practice.  However, the connection of spirit to body allows for greater erotic awareness and healing.

Singing Through Sex with Christine Laplante - Cabin S&T

This class is both lecture and experiential. Join me for a discussion on how our mind and body integrate through vagal stimulation and vocalization. When we sing through sex, we achieve a transcendence that allows us to potentially unlock parts of us yet to be discovered or that are in immeasurable need of rediscovery. This is a hands-on, clothes-off class. The goal is for self/partner sexual and sensual exploration. While orgasm is a possible outcome, it is not the focus. You can attend solo or with your partner(s). You will not be assigned a partner during this class. Please bring something to lie on and to cover the beds as well as any prophylactics, lubricants or other enhancements you desire.

Love and Light and Screaming: A Musical Journey with Polyphonist - Amphitheater

Part concert, part personal ritual of grief and joy, join Polyphonist in a mostly original (there might be a cover or two thrown in depending on how the spirit of camp moves us) one-human show designed to connect, celebrate love, and commemorate our ancestors.

Saturday 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Hitch & Go: Messy, fun, and easy rope that everyone can enjoy with Bosch - Playspace

This is the rope class for everyone!  This class is not about learning specific ties in a specific way. This class is about improvisation and fun. Participants will be invited to start with the rope secured to the body somewhere and then pick a direction and see where the rope goes and where you and your rope bottom take it. Participants will be invited to tie wrists, arms, torsos, legs, and ankles to each other in creative ways, mostly using two simple hitches: the munter hitch and the cow hitch. We will start with a guided tie and then each participant will set out on their own. We will discuss different techniques that make these basic ties work, rope tension, anchoring, reversing direction, and taking up slack as the body changes position.  We will spend a lot of time on the floor, so a blanket or yoga mat is recommended. Bring 2-3 ropes 20-30 feet in length. This class works with tying someone else or self-tying.

Polyamory Transitions with Anita Wagner - Front Porch of Dining Hall

This facilitated discussion will focus on sharing our experiences with moving through changes in the manner in which we conduct our relationships. Life brings changes. Love sometimes comes and sometimes goes. Sometimes life is such that we may feel it’s time for a change – for example, if we are opening a previously monogamous relationship or are transitioning to monogamy or singleness. Come share your thoughts, experiences and hope in this thought-provoking discussion. 60 minutes.

The Ancient Art of Fermenting Vegetables with Kevin Kaminski - Back of Dining Hall

Humans are happiest when working with our Mother, the Earth. Vegetables are a great source of nutrition and sustenance, and fermented vegetables are more than sauerkraut. Learn the easy steps to make your vegetables last longer, taste better, be more nutritious, and build a healthier you along the way.

Music Medicine and Handpan Meditation with Christine Laplante - Dance Pavillion

Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of the handpan, a unique instrument known for its soothing tones. This class combines the therapeutic elements of music, meditation, and healing practices to create an integrated experience. Christine’s expertise creates a space where the harmonies of the handpan become a healing medicine for the mind, body and soul. Join this class for a rejuvenating blend of musical meditation and therapeutic exploration.

Uniting Your Sexual and Spiritual Powers with Dan & dawn - Cabin S&T

Join Dan and dawn as they lead you on a journey of discovery. How does your Sexuality fit in with your Spirituality? How does your Spirituality fit with your Sexuality? Do you see them as separate, or only about peak experiences, or as something that is cohesive and works together? They will give some examples of their experience with sacred sexuality and then lead you on a guided meditation to help you see the connection within yourself.

Through the Dark with Thista Minai - Barn

For centuries religious and philosophical figures have written about the “Dark Night of the Soul” – that moment all of us face sooner or later, in at least some aspect of our lives, when something that used to bring us joy or elation or excitement suddenly feels empty. Spiritual practitioners might experience it as an inability to sense energy or feel sacredness around them. Kinksters might experience it as a favorite play modality feeling dull or unsatisfying, or a familiar dynamic feeling inexplicably distant or disengaged. What brings us to those dark places? What can we learn by wandering through that long night? How do we find our way to the light of dawn? Come explore the many paths we might take through the dark.

Spring Cleaning: Melt and Pour Soapmaking for Beltane with Cliodhna Kahli-Morgan Sapphire, HP - Canteen

Melt and pour soapmaking is a delightful way to create something beautiful and practical that can be customized to your preferences and desires, spellworking, or Sabbat! In this hands-on workshop, you will have the opportunity to create your very own soap using essential oils, herbs, and safe colorful powders. We will talk about techniques, correspondences, and usages ... and we will have a lot of fun crafting while we do! All materials will be provided. 60 minutes. Sign up in advance at Check In. Suggested donation: $5-$10 for supplies.

Saturday 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Recovering in the Lifestyle - Barn

If you follow a 12 step program, and need to talk to someone on campus that is in the same boat as you with variable ages of sobriety, come down and join us for an hour.

What’s going on Saturday Evening?

Driving Towards Ecstasy with Kate - 8pm - 9:30pm, Playspace

The classic returns! A combination of guided meditation towards ecstatic cathartic release and hard-rockin’ sexy music are the foundation for this Dungeon-based ritual. Ritual briefing will begin promptly; please arrive on time with impact toys (and a playmate) in hand, prepared to plunge into this shared journey, which Kate will guide. Experience with both Scene activities and energy work is a plus! Join other Players to build energy together and work towards an ecstatic release while enjoying a selection of rhythmic music. If you’re not with a partner but wish to contribute to the energy-raising, you are welcome to follow along within the guidelines set during the ritual briefing. Please note: space for this experience is limited. There will be a sign-up sheet at HQ until 6pm on Saturday.  Pairs who sign up ahead of time secure a piece of furniture, and we cannot guarantee spaces will be available for walk-in partners.

Open Playspace Hours - 9:30pm - 1am

Putting the Erotic in Erotic Hypnosis with HypnoStory - 8pm - 9:30pm, Barn

Cum on command? Arousal control? Orgasm denial? That's just the beginning. How about cumming backwards, for the first time again, or feeling what every part of your body might feel like if every muscle has its own orgasm? There are so many ways to play with hypnotic arousal and orgasm that are fun, surprising and unique experiences. From the silly to the sexy, HypnoStory will cover (and demo) a bunch! Cum (yep, we went there) get some ideas on how to spice up your sex.

Cabaret Night with LunaBear - 8pm - 12 midnight, Cabin OPQR

Do you miss Sexperiments? Are you longing to perform for an appreciative audience? Come to the Cabaret! We will be open and ready for fun Friday and Saturday night. Bring your sexy self, dress up, dance, gyrate, tease, strip, and get your groove on, show us your style. We will provide music; you chose your song. We will be open and ready to aid you in your need to express your extrovert self. Even if you don’t want to perform, we need an audience to perform to, so come on out and watch the show!

Fire Circle: The Strength Inside - 9pm, Upper Fire Circle

Inside us all is a deeply rooted, unrelenting spark. A light of love that emanates from the very core of what we are. That light buried so deep, you only notice it when it is the darkest. Come celebrate with us as we honor the love and drive that gets us through the darkest times in our lives, and propels us into the brightest futures.

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Meet the Presenters!

Anita Wagner is a nationally recognized leader-emeritus, spokesperson and educator on the subject of polyamory. As a passionate educator and sexual freedom advocate for more than 20 years, Anita has assisted others in exploring an expanding array of relationship options. As a veteran community organizer, Anita has co-founded non-profit educational and social groups and has held positions as faculty and director with a wide variety of related organizations.

Louis/b0ihazard will not be able to join us at Beltane this year.  Is a polyamorous, queer trans man, a sadomasochist, and a proud switch. He's been in the public BDSM scene since 2011, and a practicing witch since 2004. Power with touch is his main game, both in a power exchange context and in his magic practice. Outside of kink, and magic he's a born and bred Brooklynite, a lover of spreadsheets, a writer of smut, and plays a ton of Dungeons and Dragons.

Bosch (He/Him) is a polyamorous Dom, Sadist, Rigger, and occasional smart-ass with over twenty years of experience practicing power-exchange dynamics, and over ten years experience as a kink educator and presenter.  He has an insatiable curiosity about the myriad of ways each of us practice and experience kink.  He is a web developer, a bookseller/collector of 18th, 19th, and early 20th century antique erotica and sex-related books and kinky antiques.  He is a lover of fine, dark, bitter chocolate and coffee.  His love languages are cuddles, sadism, eye-contact, and sarcasm.

Christine Laplante is a licensed mental health therapist, high priestess, musician, and author, weaving the magic of healing into her diverse skill set. As a compassionate healer, she draws upon her therapeutic expertise and spiritual wisdom to guide individuals on transformative journeys. Christine's musical talents complement her work, adding a melodic dimension to her holistic approach. Her authored works reflect a deep understanding of the mystical and healing arts, making her a well-rounded practitioner dedicated to nurturing mind, body and spirit.

Rev. Cliodhna Kahli-Morgan Sapphire, HP recently earned her Masters of Social Work and Master of Science in Disaster Resilience Leadership from Tulane University. She was the founder and President of Jersey City Polyamory and Alt Relationship Network, with whom she ran a vast variety of events for several years before relocating to the city and concentrating on her efforts with Open Love NY, with whom she is the President Emeritus, and Spiritual Poly NYC. Jeri, aka, Cliodhna, is currently a host for New York City's Poly Cocktails, and is looking forward to launching a new organization in Westchester later this year. She is the co-coordinator (aka Auntie Mermaid) of The Findyhoppers, a member of the Raks al Zahra International Troupe, co-founder of Aventurine Raks, and was a featured performer with the Radiant Tarot tour. She has had the honor of performing with and facilitating Public Urban Ritual Experiment (an international community of dancers, musicians and artists who believe in the power of creativity for healing, personal growth and positive change), the Myra Krein Dance Residency in San Miguel de Allende, the Havana Habibi residency in Cuba, and 1920s Meets Bellydance residency in Kona, Hawaii. Cliodhna/Jeri has presented at Poly Living Philadelphia, Rocky Mountain Poly Living, APW, Southwest Lovefest, PolyDallas Millenium, THE Beltane, the Loving Choices Seminar in Oklahoma City, and Open Love Presents in NYC. She lives in the Hudson Valley with her husband, life partner, and their three adorable, opinionated feline companions and is thrilled to be returning to THE Beltane for another year of majick and community.

Dan and dawn have been an alternative lifestyle couple since 2001 and have presented at over 300 events around North America. Not only do they enjoy teaching workshops and classes, they also share via books, specialized events, and fun consent negotiation playing cards!  They are creators of the Scarlet Sanctuary and Path of the Qadishti (sacred sexuality spaces) and featured educators on many spaces, such as Kink Academy and Creative Sexuality.  dawn (Rev Dawn Earthsong, leader of the Sacred Flame Circle) and Dan (a former novice Buddhist monk) bring a unique perspective to both having a spiritual but kinky as f*ck life!   They are also the co-hosts of the Erotic Awakening Podcast, an educational show that explores “all things erotic” since 2011; 2016 MAsT International Member’s Choice Presenter of the Year Award winner; Great Lakes region title holders; and mentioned in a number of books, articles, and other media.

Emma Zonn (xie/hir/she/he/they) is a performer, activist, and educator working and living on Nacotchtank, Piscataway, and Manahoac land colonially known as the DMV. Emma is a fat, queer, non-binary, bisexual, white, neurodivergent, college-educated, millennial witch, and has worked in many fields including public health, education, and entertainment, but always with a mind towards storytelling, community, justice, representation, and liberation for all. When xie is not performing, Emma moonlights as an intimacy choreographer, sex educator, and art model. Emma’s work in spiritual, physical, and creative spaces alike focuses on balance, negotiation, liminality, and the opposing and intersecting forces of binaries in all things.

FireOnWater (they/them) is a pansexual, polyamorous, agender researcher as well as a forest lover, singer, advocate, sadomasochistic, switch with a love of fire, impact, primal, and edge play. They have been in the scene for almost a decade and have loved fire since day one. A painslut, FireOnWater loves to play hard, topping or bottoming, but also showing how to work levels, surprises, and woo into play. They are on the coordination team for several events and demo fireplay frequently. If you can't find them, they’re probably in the woods.

HypnoStory (they/them) loves to share the joy and power of hypnosis with most anyone who will listen. They have been doing various forms of hypnosis for over 25 years, and have taught for Charmed!, Beguiled, NEEHU, KinkyCon, and The Fetish Fair Fleamarket among others. In addition to erotic and recreational hypnosis, they occasionally perform as a stage hypnotist and work with clients using hypnosis for personal growth. Together with their oblate panda, they run CONsolation (a Discord server that presents kink education) and Pandastory, their kink education business.

James Welch is one of the artisan-owners of WizardsTower, supplier of ritual garments and custom wands for mid-level and advanced magickal practitioners.  He is a writer, teacher and community elder. In his personal practice, Jim combines elements of both the Celtic and Norse traditions, following the Dragon Path. He began designing garments and bags 40 years ago and has used this skill to serve the ritual needs of the Pagan community for over 16 years. Currently, he offers workshops about the magickal properties of color, woods/trees, crystals and stones. He can be reached through the WizardsTower website, www.wizardstower1.com

Kate has been involved in Scene activities for close to 25 years, and an educator for nearly 20. Her eclectic path has covered diverse ground, and she enjoys educating folks about the varied and different ways to explore life through many kinds of play. During that time, Kate’s involvement in the spiritual side of kink has grown and flourished, leading to a focus on ecstatic experience through sensation, and connection with the Divine through ordeal. Probably owing to early and repeated certification in American Red Cross safety courses, Kate’s keen to provide knowledge and environment for folks to safely be as consensually kinky as they please.

Kevin is one of the artisan-owners of WizardsTower, supplier of ritual garments and custom wands for mid-level and advanced magickal practitioners. Kevin is the woodworker, creating wands, spoons, and other treenware. He enjoys cooking and learning how to make stuff in the kitchen that makes life more enjoyable, including fermenting vegetables. Kevin has been living a Keto adapted diet plan since 2018. He can be reached through the WizardsTower website, www.wizardstower1.com.

LunaBear is a self-studied Pagan, who has created rituals, and led workshops. She enjoy learning and sharing knowledge and ideas with others.  

Martha Smith (she/her), aka Puck, is an astrologer and diviner, witch of all trades, rope lover, and cat wrangler. She is a 2nd Degree Initiate of Blue Star Wicca, a devotee of Brighid, Arawn, Hekate, and Persephone, a longtime FSG staff member, and a presenter at both FSG and THE Beltane. Martha and her husband, Steve Robinson, live on a hillside in the southern Finger Lakes, where they and their four cats lead interesting lives. When Martha’s not in the kitchen making an amazing stir-fry or a fruit liqueur, she’s in the garden tending basil, peppers, and rhubarb, weeding the perennials, and swearing at the mugwort. Martha is excited to be on THE Beltane’s ritual team again, and is looking forward to another energetic and engaging ritual experience. You can find Martha online at @cards.table.tarot (Instagram) and at cardstabletarot.com.

MonsignorX is a long term kinkster, philosopher, and heavy bottom/submissive who has ties to the pagan and heathen communities. He also has a strong interest in exploring gender roles and swapping them.

Paul and Savory are long-time kinksters who have been in a D/s relationship for nearly ten years now and have been coming to Beltane almost as long.

Polyphonist (pronouns: ze/zir and she/her) is a queer, nonbinary, pagan, polyamorous, published writer (most recently "Listen To Your Skin: An Anthology of Queer & Self Love"), singer, burlesque dancer, actress, activist, and switchtastic switch. Also sometimes known as Femme Fae la Butche, ze co-founded the White Elephant Burlesque Society and co-directed it for the first 6 years of its life. As zirself in the past two decades, ze has directed and performed in local theatrical productions and in solo musical performances, sang in a UU choir, been an event planner, and also has taught classes and been on panels for things such as R.A.C.K. play, polyamory, burlesque, body positivity / movement / seduction for all body types, and water fitness. Ze specializes in rose flogging and has been doing it for 15+ years and teaching classes in it for nearly 10 years. In addition to the above, she has a deep and abiding affection for tea, driving, leather, laughter, reading, ukuleles, queer sex, fountain pens, the ocean, energy play, cuddling, musicals, making out, hiking, Harry Potter, knives, kayaking, candles, and intimate, meandering conversations about sex, poly / RA, paganism / spirituality, kink, love, creativity, music, and gender – inclusive and exclusive of each other. PS: Ze is usually down for an impromptu duet of "Confrontation" from Les Mis, but calls dibs on Val Jean's part.

Alyx the Amused, Lady Wisdom, and Wordsmith together run the Temple of Dionysus, a small nonprofit dedicated to honoring the ancient Greek God Dionysus and the sacred arts (www.templeofdionysus.org). Their mission is to create a sanctuary where individuals can connect with the divine, explore their passions, and embrace the power of madness. They believe in the transformative power of pleasure, art, and freedom, and strive to foster a community that celebrates diversity and inclusivity.

As a second-generation Hellenic pagan, Alyx the Amused (they/them) has been actively practicing for over ten years. Alyx is currently working with Apollon Musagètes and Dionysos Eleutherios. In service to the theoi, Alyx runs several large, online Hellenic groups totaling well over 3,000 members. In their role as clergy, Alyx answers community questions, offers spiritual guidance, and performs rituals. Alyx also offers educational services on mythology and Hellenic topics. Alyx is an avid and active member of contra, folk, and other dance revival movements. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Alyx attended weekly community dances. Their participation in these traditions helps keep them alive. Alyx is a skilled poet in a variety of styles including haiku's, acrostics, lyrical, and blank verse. They recently wrote Prayers for the Broom Closet, a collection of divine poetry for people who need open and subtle access to worship materials.

As a devotee of Dionysus with a PhD in theatre, Lady Wisdom (she/her) has taught workshops for all ages for more than twenty years, including at Turtle Hill Events Beltane & Dungeons and Geekdom in 2019, as well as Pantheacon in CA, the Festival of the Divine Feminine in Hawaii, Autumn Erotica in FL, and Serpent Stone in GA and TN. With a PhD in theatre, she strives to bring the sacred dramatic arts into education on many levels, empower others through the intersection of fandom, sexual and gender identity, and activism. Having practiced ethical polyamory for more than 20 years, she enjoys sharing her insight about sacred sexuality.

Wordsmith (he/him) began blogging for “Life on the Swingset” shortly after entering the lifestyle. He calls his writing “erotic nonfiction,” but his insight on relationships, identity, and single male swinging go far beyond titillation. Wisdom and Wordsmith have had an ongoing love affair of words (among other things) for ten years now. As an instrument of Apollo, Wordsmith plays keyboard, many stringed things, and so much more.

Thista Minai is an educator, author, priestess, ordeal facilitator, and gleeful sadist. She uses her professional background in education to create high quality classes on a wide variety of topics, including sacred sexuality, the ordeal path, catharsis, impact, and needle play. With more than fifteen years of experience in designing and conducting rituals, Thista travels the world championing the value of spirituality and empowerment in kink and BDSM.

Webcat aka Robin loves clothing swaps. She is returning to Ramblewood after a gap of 8 years to do one, hooray! She is also a Reclaiming Witch with deep roots in kink and poly.

Zsazsa is known as a fire topping, rope topping, and over all sadistic shenanigans master. She loves to make a crowd smile, and specializes in fire cupping, fire fleshing, fire towel, floor rope, and flow arts with her fire staff! Based out of NJ, she can be found at many different events out of the east coast. Zsazsa is vehement about consent and event safety. Her favorite things are connecting with a bottom, having fun, and helping people relax and reach sub space. We live for today! Look for the red gear and just ask nicely - we'll figure something out!

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Every Ritual, Great and Small!

Part of Beltane’s magic is the many ways that the sacred is expressed in ritual experiences throughout the gathering. Here’s a master list of all the public rituals scheduled for this year, in chronological order. As always, we recommend reading their descriptions in full!

Welcome Fire Circle - 9pm, Upper Fire Circle

Get warm with us as we shake off the dust and knock off the rust around a fire. Come mingle and lend your energy to shaking and waking up each other and our sacred circle!

Opening Ritual - Thursday, 3:15pm - 4:30pm, Ritual Field

Our beloved magic-soaked land summons us in joyful reunion. But amid our hugs and hellos comes an oracle as sure as a red sky at morning – transformation is at hand, and we can be carried or crushed by it. In order to move with this wave, we must embrace it and each other.

Calling upon the Elements, we honor their powers to transform both by creation and destruction. Invoking our Gods and spirits, we honor their interplay of evolution and entropy, love and loss, pleasure and pain. We name these dualities as our allies and, with our bodies and voices, co-create the energetic vessel that holds and carries us this weekend through the uncharted waters of change.

Thursday Night Fire Circle: Be the Light, Bring the Light, Share the Light - 9pm, Upper Fire Circle

In this time of tumultuousness on a global level, tonight we will call for, invoke, and perpetuate the energies of peace, love, calm, compassion, understanding, unity, planetary awareness, and harmony. We will lend our energy towards diminishing that which is not serving us and actively working against us: hate, bigotry, greed. We will strive to create a better balance and equilibrium toward the best possible future.

Healing & Hot Wax with Kate - Friday, 1pm-3pm, Playspace

In the path of Ordeal, there are many ways to combine healing and physical experience. Join Kate as she leads a guided healing meditation using hot melted wax on the body to release the mind to manifest Intent and connect to the Divine. Bring a towel or ground covering to go under a provided dropcloth, and something to use as a blindfold. Donations to offset the cost of supplies ($5 per person/$10 per couple) are requested, or you may choose to bring your own low-temperature candle/s if you wish (“7-day” glass-column novena candles from the international-foods section of your local grocery; you will want at least three candles). You may bring a partner/s or attend solo; solo attendees will be paired randomly (with consent) to the extent that even numbers are possible; partnerships of more than two people should be advised that the meditation will only be run twice, so that each partner may take a turn giving and receiving. Please sign up on the sheet at HQ in advance, before 12noon on Friday; attendance is strictly limited to ensure adequate room for all participants.

Maypole Dance - Friday, 3:15pm - 4:30pm, Ritual Field

Beltane’s merry tradition of the Maypole returns! Come one and all to dance and weave our wishes for abundance, love, lust, play, and creation around our sacred symbol. We invite musicians of all kinds to join our drummers and fill the air with glorious rhythm for the dancers. If you can’t or don’t wish to actually dance the Maypole, you’re invited to hold space with us and add your energy however you like - dance in place, shout, sing, wave banners, twirl fans, or simply watch! Never danced the Maypole? Don’t worry, our Fool is ready to give everyone a refresher. Let’s charge our Maypole with love and pleasure.

Friday Night Fire Circle: Why We Do What We Do - Friday, 9pm, Upper Fire Circle

As we are reminded what Beltane brings us, we polish our leathers, rise to our best posture and come together. Tonight we remind ourselves of our Elemental basics. Come bring your focus to the rhythm of the ritual and beyond as we begin our season.

Main Ritual - Saturday, 3:15pm, meet at Upper Fire Circle, processing to Ritual Field

The wave of transformation swells at the Upper Fire Circle, with a procession that rolls down the land with a growing roar, sweeping all in its path along its length, carrying us as we dance on its cresting foam. The last of us to join will ride the wave at the path above our ritual field as it swirls over the grass and fills it with energy and music.

As we come together tonight to revel in the creative sensuality of Beltane, let’s reveal to each other the fantastic truths of who we choose to be as agents of change. Are you monstrous, or divine? Chaotic, or disciplined? Wild, weird, stealthy, polished, sparkling, demonic, or daemonic? What is your role in the awakening of humanity and the emergence of new ways of being? We invite you to embody that role in your appearance!

We’ve tapped into the power of allying with change, and now we flow with it, breathe with it, play with it, and collectively dream with it. Before long, our magical vessel fills and we spill out across the land to spend the night making love, making music, making mischief, making magic – a night of celebration before the hard work of transformation truly begins.

(Anyone wishing to join the procession is encouraged to bring blue, green, white, or silver banners or drapes to “make waves”, to bring instruments or noisemakers, or to carry or wear anything nautical/watery – mermaid headdresses, shark hats, pirate flags, toy boats, etc.)

Driving Towards Ecstasy with Kate - Saturday, 8pm - 9:30pm, Playspace

The classic returns! A combination of guided meditation towards ecstatic cathartic release and hard-rockin’ sexy music are the foundation for this Dungeon-based ritual. Ritual briefing will begin promptly; please arrive on time with impact toys (and a playmate) in hand, prepared to plunge into this shared journey, which Kate will guide. Experience with both Scene activities and energy work is a plus! Join other Players to build energy together and work towards an ecstatic release while enjoying a selection of rhythmic music. If you’re not with a partner but wish to contribute to the energy-raising, you are welcome to follow along within the guidelines set during the ritual briefing.  Please note: space for this experience is limited.  There will be a sign-up sheet at HQ until 6pm on Saturday.  Pairs who sign up ahead of time secure a piece of furniture, and we cannot guarantee spaces will be available for walk-in partners.

Fire Circle: The Strength Inside - Saturday, 9pm, Upper Fire Circle

Inside us all is a deeply rooted, unrelenting spark. A light of love that emanates from the very core of what we are. That light buried so deep, you only notice it when it is the darkest. Come celebrate with us as we honor the love and drive that gets us through the darkest times in our lives, and propels us into the brightest futures.

Closing Ritual - Sunday, 10:30 - 11:30am, Ritual Field

As we embrace dualities as our partners in change, we encounter one more – that of union and separation. We’ve weathered the waves together, and now we awake on a far distant shore, ready to explore the new ground beneath our feet, along paths that carry us apart. Where they will lead is a mystery that can only be known through experiencing it … but we hope they still lead us back together, to our beloved Ramblewood, once again next year. We reflect on the changes we face and soak up the energy we’ve raised together, to fuel that work. For now, we dismantle and release our vessel, allowing us to flow freely back into our everyday lives so that we can begin to bring a new world into being.

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