On Saturday, January 15 the Red Lion pub in Brede had a traditional new year celebration which dates back to pre-Christian Britain – wassailing. Often held on January 6, but over the years it appears that people are holding the event later in January. Having Pagan origins, it was a yuletide cider festival.
Wassailing is meant to be a blessing, toasting, singing, sharing and giving thanks during the yuletide period. The concept is seen as the spirit of generosity. ‘Poor folk’ went from door to door singing in return for charitable gifts rather than go begging.
The pub garden was lit with torches, a great fire to keep warm by and little lights on the various trees – very atmospheric.
Ryebellion drummers, often to be found marching in bonfire processions across East Sussex, were assembled and ready to get our toes tapping. Wine, cider and beer was available from a small hut. When finished, everyone was called to a bigger space in the car park where Morris dancers and their band was waiting to perform. Both the drummers and Morris dancers – their dance celebrates the banishing of the winter to greet the warmth and fertility of summer – were dressed up, with lights on their heads, quite enchanting.
Eventually a procession was formed which wound around the apple tree, where a wassailing group performed the ceremony to give thanks, encourage forgiveness, healing, letting bygones be bygones and encourage better working relationships and feelings of unity. It was a very special evening, hopefully to be repeated next year.
Image Credits: Heidi Foster .