Ancient Tradition of Singing to Trees - Wassail Documentary

The Anglo-Saxons left a pagan Winter tradition in Western England where people sing to the apple trees to encourage a good harvest, and this is called Wassailing. Wassail comes from Old English "wes hal" meaning "be healthy". There are many well attested records of the tradition of “wassailing the apple trees” from the 16th century onwards – but this practice is generally agreed to be far older. Each village has its own customs, but singing to the trees, offering them toast and making noise are common to all.

This video visits two small villages in Devon to demonstrate the Wassailing tradition. It includes firing guns into the air, hanging toast in the tree branches, electing a Wassail King or queen to lead the procession, a mummers play of an axeman who attacks the trees, lots of cider drinking and lots of singing too! Thanks to Sandford orchard and all the people who participated in the two events.
* Video credit ...... Survive the Jive
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