WASSAILING

On an icy January afternoon, we hiked up to the top of the hill to join the wassailing on Otley Chevin with the Wharfedale Wayzgoose. The cold air rang with song and laughter as people gathered among the trees, stamping their feet and raising their voices against the winter gloom.

Wassailing is an ancient pagan tradition, rooted in singing, dancing, and making as much noise as possible to drive away evil spirits and bless the apple orchards for a good harvest. Ribbons were tied to the branches and pieces of toast soaked in cider were placed on the trees, small ritual offerings made in hope of a bountiful year ahead.