Families in eastern Somerset are being invited to wake up the apple trees and welcome the promise of spring next year.
The fourth annual Weylands Wassail, a celebration rooted in centuries-old tradition, will take place on Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm in the community orchard at Weylands, Frome.
The word 'wassail' comes from Old English, meaning 'be well,' and the event promises an afternoon of family-friendly crafts and music.
Attendees are encouraged to bring pots, pans, and spoons to bang during the ceremony, which begins at 2.30pm and will be led by Annabelle Macfadyen and Simon Blakeman.
Ms Macfadyen said: "The Wassail is a lovely midwinter community event where children and adults participate in an ancient tradition of wassailing the apple trees in the orchard.
"We need to wake the trees from their winter sleep by making a lot of noise with pots and pans, and then make offerings of toast and cider to ensure a good harvest.
"Once the trees are blessed in this way, we celebrate them in song with a cup of mulled cider or apple juice in hand."
The tradition of orchard wassailing dates back to the 16th century and is intended to bless the fruit trees for a plentiful yield.
Before the main ceremony, there will be craft activities, including making willow crowns and wassail sticks.
Hot mulled cider and apple juice will also be available.
The event will conclude with a performance by the Frome Street Bandits until 3.30pm.
Entry is free, though donations are welcome.
Cider and toast for the ceremony will be provided.
Mayor of Frome, Anita Collier, said: "The wassail has become one of Frome’s favourite community events - despite the chilly time of year, the mood is far from it!
"Come and enjoy the ‘village green’ from 1.30 and then help ensure a bountiful harvest with the wassail ceremony.
"Many thanks to Charly, Annabelle, Simon and everyone who works so hard to make it such a fantastic day."
The Weylands orchard was planted by volunteers and designed by Charly Le Marchant and Pavla of Hejgro, with support from FROGs, Shared Earth, and Frome Town Council.
It features a mix of fruit and nut trees, including apple, pear, cherry, hazel, and walnut.
The Wassail takes place in the green space behind Weylands/Whatcombe Road.
Location details can be found via What3Words at drives.half.pose or on Google Maps.
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