BIGNOSE and BEARDY’s WASSAIL
Ever heard of a wassail? If not, you're not alone. But fear not, because Bignose & Beardy, the Sussex Cider company, is here to not only educate but also celebrate this quirky and ancient tradition with a modern, fun twist.
In the heart of Sussex, where apple orchards whisper tales of generations past, Bignose & Beardy have been crafting cider the old-fashioned way. Their commitment to local apples, wild fermentation, and small handcrafted batches has not only produced fresh, crisp ciders but also cultivated a vibrant community of helpers, collaborators, and fans.
Steve, one half of Bignose & Beardy, shares the inspiration behind their annual wassailing event, "We were really enjoying both learning about apples, cider making, and the rich local heritage we'd stumbled into and the community of people that we were starting to connect to."
So, what exactly happens at a wassail? According to Steve, it's a delightful concoction of howling, banging drums, dedications, libations, and traditional songs. The ceremony involves charging about the trees to scare away evil spirits, paying homage to the "old man of the orchard," who lives in the oldest tree. By strengthening the old spirit, they strengthen the orchard and call down a blessing on the next harvest. A king and queen - or, in this year's case, two queens guide the procession, leading a dedication of toasted bread and a libation of cider while uttering incantations.
What sets Bignose & Beardy's Wassail apart is the blend of traditional and modern elements. While burning torches, live music, and open-fire cooking are steeped in tradition, the event takes a contemporary turn with the inclusion of local vendors such as this years additions: Rowdy and Fancy's Chocolate, The Traditional Cheese Dairy, and Three Acre Brewery. This infusion of modern flair transforms the wassail into a vibrant celebration that seamlessly bridges the gap between age-old tradition and contemporary festivities.
Steve emphasises their dedication to community involvement, "Over the years, we have grown a community of kindred spirits, and 250 people came to wassail. We feel blessed and connected and rooted in our community, and Bignose & Beardy has been the fulcrum for that."
Bignose & Beardy's Wassail is not just a historical reenactment; it's a living, breathing testament to the power of community and shared heritage. The event has been a roaring success, with connections forged between orchard owners, gardeners, families, fellow cider makers, and a host of local businesses.
"We connect with orchard owners, gardeners, families who come together to pick apples, fellow cider makers - both professional and hobbyist and loads of like-minded local businesses we love collaborating with," Steve says.
Despite a brief hiatus during the lockdowns, the Wassail made a triumphant return in 2023, marking the fourth edition of this unique celebration. The pictures from the event tell a story of joy, camaraderie, and a shared love for tradition.
In a world where time-honoured customs can sometimes feel distant, Bignose & Beardy are not only reviving the art of wassailing but also ensuring it's done in an approachable, and fun way. Sussex, with its rich cultural tapestry, boasts businesses like Bignose & Beardy that are keeping traditions alive while inviting everyone to join in the revelry. So, if you find yourself in Sussex next January, be sure to join Bignose & Beardy for a wassail like no other—a celebration that blends history, community, and, of course, some fantastic cider.
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