Holding our first Wassail at New Forest Cider
On a cold January afternoon, with boots muddied and cheeks glowing, we gathered in the orchard for something very special — our very first Wassail.
With the help of The New Forest Green Man, friends, neighbours and cider-lovers alike came together beneath the apple trees. There was cider (of course), music, laughter, and a good deal of joyful noise — pots, pans and cheers echoing through the branches to scare off anything unwelcome and invite in a fruitful year
We were also joined by The New Forest Meddlars, Morris Dancers who filled the yard with energy and colour. Their dances brought the space alive — sticks cracked, boots stamped and bells rang — and, in true wassail spirit, everyone was encouraged to join in. Before long, the whole gathering was moving as one.
As darkness began to fall, torches were handed out and lit, their flames flickering against the winter sky. Led by Green Man and Green Lady, a torch-lit procession wound through the orchard, firelight flickering between the trees as it climbed towards the heart of the ceremony. Voices rose, footsteps crunched underfoot, and the sense of anticipation grew with every step.
Slices of toast were blessed with a sprinkling of cider and given out to hang in the trees — part offering, part symbolism, part bird feast — while we raised a glass and spoke a blessing for the orchard. Old traditions met new faces, and the orchard felt very much alive.
As dusk fell, Trav Cats entertained us into the night, while everyone warmed their bellies with homemade chilli and mulled cider. Fires glowed, conversations flowed, and the sense of togetherness lingered long after the music faded.
Wassailing isn’t a performance — it’s a shared moment. A pause in the year to say thank you for what’s been, and to hope for what’s to come. Seeing so many people embrace the ritual, laugh along, and truly get involved was incredibly heart-warming.
If you missed it this time, don’t worry — this is just the start. Keep an eye on our blog and events pages for news from the farm, upcoming gatherings, and more moments like this as the seasons unfold.
Here’s to the orchard, the trees, and the year ahead.
Wassail! 🍎🍏
