As the January chill lingers and winter casts its frosty spell, I find myself envious of a tortoise. Oh to be tucked up snug and warm, and sleep until it's all over.
It's no wonder then that I found myself drawn to an ancient tradition steeped in folklore, community, and hope: wassailing.
At the weekend, I joined this centuries-old celebration, not just to toast good health but to bid farewell to the darkness of winter, banish mischievous spirits called Krampus, and welcome the promise of spring.
What is Wassailing?
The word "wassail" comes from the Old English "waes hael," meaning "be well" or "good health." Originally, it was a toast to health and prosperity, often shared in communal celebrations with songs, food, and spiced cider.
Wassailing also has deep roots in orchard traditions. Groups would gather in apple orchards to sing to the trees, pouring cider over their roots to ward off spirits and ensure a bountiful harvest. This practice symbolised the turning of the seasons, celebrating renewal and the promise of growth.
A Seasonal Tradition with Ancient Roots
Wassailing's origins lie in pre-Christian celebrations of the winter solstice—a time of rebirth and the sun's return. As these customs evolved, they became a way to bring communities together, blending themes of renewal, protection, and celebration.
One of the most enchanting rituals is "apple wassailing," where songs like this one were sung to the trees:"Here’s to the health of the trees and the fruit they bear, May they thrive and be fruitful, with the sun's warm glare."
With cider poured at the tree roots and lively chants ringing through the night, this tradition embodied gratitude and hope for the year ahead.
Wassailing in Modern Times
Though fewer people trek to orchards today, wassailing is experiencing a revival. Communities gather to sing, enjoy mulled cider, and share the joy of connection. Modern festivals often feature bonfires, music, and dances, blending ancient customs with contemporary celebration.
My Wassailing Adventure in Sherwood Forest
I had the pleasure of celebrating wassailing in the legendary Sherwood Forest. With my trusty chihuahua by my side, I, along with at least a hundred other people, wandered into this magical woodland to join an extraordinary event.
As the sun dipped behind the ancient trees, I was greeted by none other than Robin Hood and his band of merry outlaws! Together, we all made our way to the famous Major Oak. We were told that each time any of them shouted "Wassail", we should shout "Drink Ale" in response. A nod to tradition, as ale wasn't actually drank. And so we shouted amongst the trees, banged on saucepans, banishing the lingering spirits of winter—Krampus included, who were waiting for us on our journey, were backed along the path to the Major Oak where they were ultimately defeated.
It was a fun family atmosphere. Towering oaks stood like silent sentinels, their bare branches reaching for the promise of spring. With Krampus defeated , we heralded the hope of good health, prosperity, and the coming of brighter days.
Even my chihuahua joined the revelry, though undetered by Krampus, he was living his best life meeting all the other dogs in attendence, and sniffing happily away.
The experience was more than just a celebration—it was a connection to nature, history, and hope. As the famous Sherwood Forest welcomed the year ahead with open arms.
Why Wassailing Still Matters
In today’s fast-paced world, traditions like wassailing remind us to pause, reconnect, and find joy in the small wonders of life. It’s about celebrating community, the rhythms of nature, and the hope that each season brings.
Whether it’s singing to trees, toasting with friends, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the world around us, wassailing carries forward a beautiful spirit of renewal and togetherness.
So, the next time you raise a glass, don’t just say “Cheers!” Say “Waes Hael!”—to good health, good fortune, and the magic of new beginnings.
Follow My Adventures
Want to see more from my magical night in Sherwood Forest? Check out my instagram for a reel of my wassailing adventure with Robin Hood, and the enchanting traditions that brought hope and joy to the heart of winter.
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