Each winter Terhune Orchards follows an ancient Anglo-Saxon tradition of Wassailing the Trees. Wassail is an ancient Saxon word that means “health be to you,” and it’s the health of the trees that will be celebrated.
The wassailing custom began in England where many villages relied on the apple harvest. Knowing that the spring buds are on the trees in the winter, it was thought that creating a noisy racket in winter would scare away bad sprits and ensure an excellent harvest in autumn. The family at Terhune follows this tradition by opening the apple orchards to visitors to ensure a good harvest in the coming year.
Gather under the bare branches of the orchard, which are over a century old. Handsome Molly dancers dressed in traditional dress of black costumes play an important role in the festivities each year. Kingsessing Morris dancers will also be joining in the dancing with their white garb and festive feathers.
Everyone joins in with chanting and music making, toasts of hot cider and placing gifts of cider-soaked bread in the tree branches while chanting the lively words of praise for the New Year. Bring noisemakers — drums, whistles, bells, clackers, or put a few pebbles in an empty coffee can with a lid — to ward off evil spirits.
After, gather around the bonfire to roast marshmallows and enjoy a free cup of hot apple cider and apple cider donuts.
Spice Punch will perform traditional songs and ballads on the Wine Barn porch.
The wine barn will be open with limited indoor seat and lots of outdoor seating at the firepits. Enjoy wine tastings and food. Toast the upcoming apple season with a glass of Apple Wine, made with apple cider.
The farm store will be open for fresh produce, baked goods and local gourmet items.
Stop at the Barn Door Café for light fare and treats.
Wassailing the Apple Trees Farm Festival is free and open to the public.