Join us for a Wassail at The Firs
Welcome in the new season at The Firs from Saturday 14 February to Sunday 22 February 2026 and discover how to create your very own Wassail.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Step back into an age‑old winter tradition and create your own lively Wassail Celebration in the orchard at The Firs —a cheerful, spirited gathering rooted in centuries of folklore and festivity. “Wassail” comes from the Old English phrase “waes hæl,” meaning “be well” or “good health.” Historically, communities would come together in the darkest months of winter to bless their orchards, scare away mischievous spirits, and encourage a bountiful harvest in the year ahead. From singing and dancing to making joyful noise, wassailing was a way to wake the trees from their winter rest and invite prosperity for the season to come.
In traditional wassailing, noise drives away bad spirits - use pots and pans and help fill the orchard with merriment! Raise your voices and sing a traditional Wassail song to celebrate warmth, community, and the promise of spring. Hang toast on your favourite fruit tree as a symbol of gratitude and to encourage a fruitful harvest.
Whether you’re continuing a tradition or discovering a new one, creating your own Wassail Celebration is an unforgettable way to brighten the winter and spread good cheer to all—trees included!
Come back and visit us when we celebrate Easter and Blossom at The Firs and discover if your Wassail has worked!
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
Suitable for children
- Meeting point
At the Visitor Centre
- What to bring and wear
This event takes place outdoors in The Orchard. We advise sturdy footwear and warm clothes!
- Accessibility
Designated mobility parking in main car park. Wheelchair access to visitor centre and garden - limited wheelchair access to cottage. Accessible toilet located in visitor centre.
Upcoming events
An Audience with Corinne
Listen to cellist Corinne Frost playing cello music by British composers including Elgar. Corinne will also take music requests (classical or not) and might even create a sound portrait for you.
Easter Adventure Trail at The Firs
From Saturday 28 March to Sunday 12 April, hop into Spring this Easter at The Firs. Can you discover all ten activity stations and make the robin sing?