Icons of Fairy Legend and Folklore

International Fairy Day is coming, June 24th!

Modern fairies are generally portrayed as miniature humans with wings and magical powers. Although much of ancient folklore has portrayed them as large and malicious, modern fairies appear to be much more beneficent.

In Europe, the fairy lore dates to the Middle Ages, but goes further back in ancient Sanskrit, Greek and Arabic mythology. In Celtic tradition, the fae fled invading foreigners, living deep in woodlands and underground. In Scottish folklore they were tricksters, sometimes malicious to humans.

The most widely recognized fairies in art and literature are the legends from Europe. Wings only appeared during Victorian times, although fairies in most cultures always seemed to have the ability to fly.

Fairies are featured in all forms of media – film, books, art, even video games. Children’s books are full of these magical and ethereal beings, usually helpful and joyful. There are numerous fairy festivals around the world. Hope you can find one in your area. A quick search on the internet will locate them. Fairies have captured our imaginations, regardless of our age. And we will continue to revel in the joy they bring.