Spring is upon us in Middle-earth, and with it comes a joyous season of festivals and celebrations! As the Spring Festival continues to bring laughter and merriment to our towns, the whimsical April Fool’s Chicken Run promises mischief tomorrow, and the eagerly awaited 18th Anniversary event is just around the corner. Yet, among these familiar festivities, one lesser-known celebration holds a special place in my heart—the Festival of Stars.
Held beneath the open skies from April 6th to April 12th, commemorating the time when Eärendil first took to the heavens, bringing hope to Middle-earth, the Festival of Stars is a tradition observed by many elves, rangers, and scholars of celestial lore across Middle-earth. It’s a time to gather under the brilliance of Gil-Estel, the Star of High Hope, to share stories, sing ancient songs, and reflect on the mysteries of the heavens.
Each year, participants come together in quiet meadows, atop gentle hills, and near the edges of reflective lakes, bringing with them telescopes, star charts, and lanterns designed to mimic constellations. During this night, all lights in the settlement are dimmed, allowing the stars above to shine unobstructed, guiding celebrants in stories passed down through generations.
Central to this event is the recounting of celestial legends—tales such as that of Menelvagor, the heavenly swordsman, who stands eternal watch against darkness; or Valacirca, the Sickle of the Valar, forever signaling vigilance and protection. Scholars and travelers alike exchange their knowledge of the constellations, passing along star charts annotated by generations of star-gazers.
The Festival of Stars also marks a time for quiet contemplation and renewal. Amid storytelling and song, participants craft small paper lanterns inscribed with wishes and hopes for the year ahead, releasing them into the night sky or floating them gently down rivers, symbolizing their dreams joining the greater tapestry of Arda.
So as you enjoy the excitement of spring festivals in the coming weeks, I invite you to pause beneath the open skies one clear night. Look up to the stars, join me in reflection, and perhaps, share in the quiet magic of the Festival of Stars.