Mark your calendars for the upcoming Frome wassail, a beloved tradition taking place on Saturday, February 3 at Weylands. This event, rooted in Saxon customs, aims to wake the trees and dispel malevolent spirits, ensuring a bountiful fruit harvest in the autumn. The ceremony, prevalent in cider-making regions, including Somerset and Gloucestershire, involves merry-making, singing, and the consumption of mulled cider or apple juice, which is also offered to the tree roots.
Hosted by the Tree Group Frome and Wood for the Trees, the wassail promises a delightful procession to the trees, accompanied by lively music from the Frome Street Bandits. As part of the festivities, there will be opportunities for participants to engage in craft activities, such as creating musical wassail sticks. Additionally, attendees can savor mulled cider from Dowding’s and explore various refreshments available for purchase.
Adding to the excitement of this year’s wassail is the search for Frome’s new town crier. Aspiring candidates will have the chance to audition by presenting a short wassail-themed poem and showcasing their skills with the crier’s bell. The event will provide a platform for the community to participate in this time-honored tradition and play a role in selecting the next town crier to succeed the retiring Mike Bishop.
READ MORE: Bath Christmas Market: Improved Train Service for Festive Shoppers
READ MORE: Fatal Crash In Somerset: VW Polo Driver Killed in Collision with Mini
Councillor Anita Collier emphasized the significance of town criers in local history and expressed enthusiasm for integrating the crier selection process with the wassail festivities. The event serves as an opportunity to honor the role of town criers in town events and celebrate the contributions of outgoing crier Mike Bishop.
Amidst the revelry, Charly Le Marchant from Tree Group Frome extended a warm invitation to all community members, encouraging their participation in the wassail and emphasizing the spirit of togetherness during the cold season.
The Frome wassail will be a joyful and engaging occasion for all, welcoming residents who have been involved in past tree planting initiatives as well as those seeking a lively outdoor gathering in the midst of winter. Guests are encouraged to bring their own instruments, pots, and pans to join in the celebratory noise-making, as well as cash for refreshments. For further updates and involvement opportunities, individuals are urged to join The Tree Group Frome Facebook page.
Come and immerse yourself in the age-old customs and festivities of the Frome wassail on February 3 at Weylands, off Whatcombe Road, starting at 1.30 pm, and relish the experience of this time-honored tradition.