The essence of paganism is diversity, but one consequence of this is the fact that we can't always assume everyone shares the same ideas about what is acceptable behavior. Please extend the same courtesy to others as you would want; if you are having a problem with please speak to someone on the staff. To remind old timers and inform newcomers, here are some of the unwritten "rules".

RITUAL: A ritual is a religious service, and one in which considerable power may be raised. Participants should behave reverently and be careful.

A ritual is not a spectator sport. Those who don't wish to take part should go far enough away so that their conversations, etc. will not disturb participants; sounds travel father than your think. Those who are participating should pay attention and guard their tongues.

A ritual need not be solemn, but it should be serious, in the sense that humor should be used purposefully. Gratuitous funny remarks can be disruptive.

Even those rituals that appear to be informal have been planned carefully. Look to those who are leading for cues on how and when to join in chanting, drumming, dancing, etc. so that you will contribute to the build‑up and flow of energy, rather than dispersing it.

Once the circle has been cast, enter or leave it only in emergency. Bouncing in and out of a circle may disperse the energy, and will certainly distract the other participants. If you must leave, "cut" and exit or get one of the ritual officers to do so.

Ritual tools (including drums) are personal and powerful. Don't handle, use or play without specific permission from the owner.

GETTING HIGH: The presence of illegal substances can jeopardize everyone participating in the festival. Please don't! Also, the general atmosphere of release and excitement at a Festival can sometimes lead to problems with drugs or alcohol. If you find yourself losing control, ask for help from First Aid or other experienced person.

FOOD AND SLEEP: The excitement of four days with our own tribe sometimes makes it hard to remember the body's needs. A contact high can be as exhausting as the drug‑induced kind. Remember to eat and sleep! If you find that your emotions are running away with you, check your physical condition, and if necessary get someone to help you ground and center.

SEX can be a powerful force, especially in an atmosphere of freedom. Respect it, and remember the following:

‑‑among pagans, nudity is an affirmation, not an invitation!

‑‑Be sure you interpret signals correctly. A loving touch is not necessarily an invitation either. If your attempt at closeness and caring makes someone uncomfortable, STOP, and if someone touches you in an unwelcome way, don't hesitate to tell him/her how you feel. Be sensitive to how your well‑meant affection is being perceived.

‑‑Practice Safe Sex! Bring your own condoms, use them, and if you have a STD (sexually transmitted disease) be responsible and tell your partner. With a little imagination you can probably think of something to do. (Condoms may not be available at the gathering)

‑‑The Festival won't last forever. When making commitments and forming relationships, consider how they will affect your life when you go home.

NETWORKING: The Festival is a wonderful opportunity for pagans from various traditions to share knowledge and ideas. When talking to newcomers, avoid a "hard sell" approach. People who recruit too intensely make pagans suspicious. It is also counter-effective to boast about your magical powers, spiritual advancement, initiations and degrees. Newcomers should judge teachers and groups by their deeds, not their words. Don't let anyone pressure you into joining a group or doing anything you are not ready for.

(Thanks to the "Rites of Spring" and Diana Paxson for originating and rewriting this material.)