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From Bonfires to Parish Notices - the rebranding of the old Pagan Festivals

Peter Smith SpeakerNet Sponsor


Regions:
Surrey, Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, Hampshire, London
Notice Period:
Regular (more than one month's notice)
Type:
Hobby
Fee:
Paid: £125 plus travel from Guildford
Category:
History
Updated:
28th May 2026

How ancient seasonal rituals evolved through Celtic beliefs and folklore, the over-layering of Christianity through to modern reinvention. From Samhaim to Imbolc and Lughnasadh to Litha we look at how old fears, hopes, meanings and symbols still shape our festivals and the way we live today.

Views: 4 | Enquiries: 0

About Peter Smith

I'm a beekeeper, amateur entomologist and writer and give talks on a range of subjects which share a common focus on the insects and plants of the UK and the stories and histories associated with them. My fully illustrated talks are designed to entertain as well as inform and are aimed at everyone with an interest in the natural world. I try to improve the awareness of some of the problems faced by our native pollinators and offer practical suggestions on what we can do to help them. I also work closely with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust.

As seen on BBC Countryfile! I presented a section on bees and pollinators on the Countryfile edition aired on April 21st.

I give talks to Wildlife and Conservation groups, WI, U3A and Gardening Clubs, U3A and Resident Associations and Businesses and have received the following testimonials.

  • "Absolutely Fascinating - I had no idea moths were so interesting - or colourful" (The Secret World of Moths)
  • "A complete eye-opener" (The Plight of the Bumblebee)
  • "Gorgeous" (*The Private Lives of Butterflies")
  • "Brilliant, engaging, knowledgeable and funny" (Protecting our Pollinators)
  • "Insightful, entertaining and amusing" (The Business of Bees)
  • "Enchanting" (Sacred Plants of the Celts & Druids)
  • "Not just delicious - hugely informative" (A Taste of Honey)
  • "Fantastic! Enormous scope and genuinely surprising. And funny - very funny! Also I can't wait to cast my first honey spell" (Bees & Honey: Tradition, Myth, Symbol & Magic)
  • I'll never look at a Cabbage White again without smiling. (The Private Lives of Butterflies)

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