Event Description

Recreate an ancient winter tradition and hold your own lively Wassail Celebration in the orchard at Elgar’s Birthplace — a cheerful, spirited gathering rooted in centuries of folklore and festivity. ‘Wassail’ derives from the Old English phrase ‘waes hæl,’ which means ‘be well’ or ‘good health’. Historically, communities would unite in the darkest months of winter to bless their orchards, deter mischievous spirits, and encourage a bountiful harvest in the coming year. From singing and dancing to making joyful noise, wassailing was a means of waking the trees from their winter slumber and inviting prosperity for the season to come.

In traditional wassailing, noise drives away bad spirits – use pots and pans and help fill the orchard with merriment! Raise your voices and sing a traditional Wassail song to celebrate warmth, community, and the promise of spring. Hang toast on your favourite fruit tree as a symbol of gratitude and to encourage a fruitful harvest.

Whether you’re continuing a tradition or discovering a new one, creating your own Wassail Celebration is an unforgettable way to brighten the winter and spread good cheer to all—trees included!

Come back and visit The Firs during the Easter and Blossom celebrations to see whether your Wassail has worked!

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply.

20 February – 22 February 2026

The Firs

Website

Location

The Firs

Elgar's Birthplace Museum

Crown East Lane, Lower Broadheath

WR2 6RH

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