Wassailing and the Release of Gabbie’s new Batch 1018
One and all are invited to join Ravenskill Orchards in an ancient English tradition, stemming back to pagan times, in which the community encourages a bountiful harvest by singing and dancing among the apple trees.
The Green Man will lead a grand, noisy, procession around the Orchard as Wassailers sing, shout, bang pots and pans and generally make as much noise as possible, in order to scare away evil spirits and ‘wake up’ the sleeping tree-spirits to ensure a good crop in the coming year.
Beggar’s Drum, Gabriola’s Village Band, will be on hand to lead us in the festivities, offering traditional English songs, the story of The Apple Tree Man and a blessing to the trees. By the light of the bonfire, with hot cider in hand, revellers will be invited to pour libations on the roots and hang cider-soaked-toast among the branches as a gift to the friendly tree-spirits.
As if this weren’t already too much fun, folks can also help us celebrate the release of Gabbie’s brand-new limited-edition “Batch 1018 Vintage Cider.” This is our first, true, Gabriola cider; made entirely of Gabriola-grown apples, from not only Ravenskill, but many of the orchards on the island. Bring your growler, fill it with 1018 and enjoy more music and dancing with The Drumbeggar Border Morris Dancers.
Help us celebrate at Ravenskill Orchards, 1240 Coats Drive between 4-7pm on Saturday, January 18th. The procession will start promptly at 4:15. Remember to dress warmly and bring noise-makers, a flashlight and your growler.