Beltane gift or not?

Beltane is coming up for us Pagans on May 1st. It i incorporates traditions from the Gaelic Bealtaine, such as the bonfire, but it bears more relation to the Germanic May Day festival, both in its significance (focusing on fertility) and its rituals (such as May pole dancing). Beltane has long been celebrated with feasts and rituals. The name means fire of Bel; Belinos being one name for the Sun God, whose coronation feast we now celebrate. As summer begins, weather becomes warmer, and the plant world blossoms, an exuberant mood prevails. In old Celtic traditions it was a time of unabashed sexuality and promiscuity where marriages of a year and a day could be undertaken but it is rarely observed in that manner in modern times. 

I have noticed that people have been asking around the Internet if you give someone a gift on Beltane like you do for Ostara. This could be a touchy subject for some. Not all Pagans celebrate Beltane, even though it is one of the major 8 sabbats. If fact, not all Pagans celebrate any of the sabbats. It depends on the person. You don't want to offend a them, especially if their views are grossly different than yours.

If you are 100% sure, then sure, give them a gift if you feel the need. But on Beltane, a gift isn't necessary. If you want to include them in your celebrations, ask them to join in your ritual. One thing I do warn is make sure that you are close to them as a Beltane ritual can be pretty intimate. If you're not close to them but still want them to be part of your Beltane, make a donation to their favorite charity. This way you are not making them uncomfortable in any way and you are helping the world.

If they don't mind receiving a gift but don't know what to get them, do a search for Beltane gifts and find the one that fits them most, not one you "think" they'll like.