Wassailing season has arrived, with several events planned across the Mendip area this January and February, giving locals the chance to take part in a centuries-old tradition of singing, toasting, and blessing the apple orchards.

Rooted in ancient English folklore, a Wassail is a ritual performed to encourage a good apple harvest for the coming year. Traditionally held in orchards, the ceremony involves music, singing, and making loud noises to ward off evil spirits believed to threaten the trees. Warm cider is often shared, with a toast made to the health of the apple trees, while bread soaked in cider is placed in the branches as an offering.

The word wassail originates from the Old English phrase wes þú hál, meaning be well or be healthy. Though the practice has medieval roots, it has become a staple of Somerset's cultural calendar, blending history with community celebration.

Here are some of the Wassailing events taking place in the Mendip area this year:

Shoemakers Museum Orchard Wassail – Street

When: Sunday, 19 January 2025, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Where: The Grange, Clarks Village, Street

Led by Les Davies MBE, this event includes storytelling, music from the Langport Mummers, and a headdress competition. Visitors can enjoy apple juice and cider while taking part in the traditional celebrations.

Mid-Somerset Show Wassail – North Wootton

When: Wednesday, 15 January 2025, 6:30 PM

Where: North Wootton Village

This traditional Wassail will see the crowning of a Wassail Queen, a bonfire to ward off evil spirits, and music from Trevor Hoddinot, alongside performances by the Langport Mummers and the Beetle Crusher Clog Dancers. A ploughman's supper and apple muffin are included in the ticket price.

Weylands Wassail – Frome

When: Saturday, 8 February 2025, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Where: Weylands/Whatcombe Road Orchard, Frome

Now in its third year, the Weylands Wassail will feature a procession, music, and plenty of noise-making to scare away spirits. Half of the ticket proceeds will be donated to Pitcombe Rock Falconry.

Mendip Society Wassail – Burrington

When: Saturday, 1 February 2025, 6:30 PM

Where: Burrington Village Hall

This community Wassail includes a short procession to a local orchard with music and light refreshments. Attendees are encouraged to bring pots and pans for the noisemaking ceremony.

Tyntesfield Wassail – Wraxall

When: Sunday, 26 January 2025, 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

Where: Tyntesfield Estate, Wraxall

Hosted by the National Trust, this family-friendly Wassail involves a procession, traditional songs, and the chance to toast the apple trees. Normal National Trust admission applies.

At a Wassail, attendees can expect lively folk music, Morris dancing, storytelling, and of course, plenty of cider. The events are family-friendly, with many offering food, drink, and educational talks about the history behind the ritual.

These gatherings provide a chance for the community to come together, keep local traditions alive, and celebrate Somerset's rich heritage. For more information about each event, visit the respective venue websites.