The ancient tradition of wassailing is back at The Folk of Gloucester this January 2025, as it hosts its Apple Tree Wassail to pay homage to its unique collection of apple trees.
What is the Gloucestershire wassail?
Wassailing is an ancient tradition which is believed to originate from the Anglo-Saxon era. The Apple Tree Wassail involves singing a rousing blessing to apple trees to encourage them to have a healthy yield at harvest time.
There's also a traditional Christmas carol called 'Gloucestershire Wassail' which was published in The Oxford Book of Carols in 1928 with an arrangement by Ralph Vaughan Williams.
What does wassail mean?
The word wassail is thought to come from an old Norse phrase and is loosely translated as 'be in good health'.
When is the Gloucestershire wassail?
Wassailing is traditionally associated with Twelfth Night, but in modern times it can take place any time during December and January.
The Folk of Gloucester's Apple Tree Wassail takes place on Saturday 18 January 2025 from 10am to 4pm.
What happens at the Gloucestershire wassail?
Keeping a tradition that's been taking place in Gloucestershire's orchards for hundreds of years alive, The Folk of Gloucester's Apple Tree Wassail is a family-friendly event which features live music; Morris dancing workshops and performances; stalls to browse; and free children's activities, all taking place in and around the historic Tudor building on Westgate Street.
The festivities start at 10am and the wassail ceremony takes place at 3pm, with a procession, log fire, apple tree blessing and wassail song.
One of the trees at The Folk is an Ashmead Kernel tree, which is unique to Gloucester and produces a traditional russet apple with a pear-like flavour that isn't found in shops.
How much does it cost to attend the Gloucestershire wassail?
The suggested donation for entry is £3 for adults, while entry for children is free.
