20 images Created 21 Oct 2024
Here We Come a-Wassailing
Wassailing Among Ancient Apple Trees
The ancient ritual of orchard wassailing unfolds on a crisp winter evening in an English apple orchard. Participants, dressed in traditional garments, gather around the “Grandfather of the orchard,” the oldest tree, led by Reverend Jones. As torchbearers light the way, songs and toasts fill the chilly air, celebrating the health of the trees.
At the height of the ceremony, pots and pans are clanged to drive away evil spirits, while cider-soaked bread is hung on the tree branches as an offering. This age-old tradition is believed to bless the orchard, ensuring a bountiful harvest for the coming year. East Sussex 2023.
The ancient ritual of orchard wassailing unfolds on a crisp winter evening in an English apple orchard. Participants, dressed in traditional garments, gather around the “Grandfather of the orchard,” the oldest tree, led by Reverend Jones. As torchbearers light the way, songs and toasts fill the chilly air, celebrating the health of the trees.
At the height of the ceremony, pots and pans are clanged to drive away evil spirits, while cider-soaked bread is hung on the tree branches as an offering. This age-old tradition is believed to bless the orchard, ensuring a bountiful harvest for the coming year. East Sussex 2023.
