When you hear about wassailing, likely you think of caroling. Well, another type of wassailing exists, orchard-visiting wassailing. An ancient custom that originated in the cider-producing region of western England, orchard-wassailing awakens the apple trees and chases away the evil spirits. This is accomplished by making a great deal of noise by singing, shouting, and banging on pots, pans, and drums.
Today, this custom of blessing the crops and singing to good health is being practiced once again in western England, parts of North America, and here at Maiden Rock Cidery and Winery. We invite you to join us for our Medieval Feast and Wassailing of the Apple Trees Saturday, December 7, from 5 - 9 p.m. We will have an authentic medieval five-course feast and special Wassail beverages prepared and served by staff in medieval attire. Our menu gives you the choice of roasted wild boar or giant smoked turkey legs and several kinds of Wassail drinks.
We are excited to welcome the Minneapolis-based group, The Laughing Hearts, to lead us in our celebration With twenty plus years experience in revelry and interactive theater with the Renaissance Festival circuit, these ladies are multi-talented Celtic/Medieval/Renaissance musicians featuring didgeridoo, doumbaek, hand percussion, mandolin, bodhran, bagpipes, whistles, flute, guitar, harmonica, and vocal performances. They bring a jolly good season to any Wassailer looking to bring forth a joyful noise!
Toast the apple trees with us. Since seating is limited, we recommend you make your reservations early. Today is good. Tickets for adults are $50, and children under 12 are $25. Groups of six or more are $40 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. Click here to register online or call (715) 448-3502. Find more information on our Medieval Feast and Wassailing of the Apple Trees here.
We’d love to have you Wassail with us!
Herdie, Carol, and Staff
Maiden Rock Winery & Cidery
WISCONSIN
