The National Trust for Jersey and Jersey Heritage will host a ‘wandering wassail’ on Saturday at Hamptonne and The Elms, during which visitors can take part in ceremonies to bless the orchards.
It is the first time that the event, in its modern-day format, has taken place at the two venues.
Historically, in winter villagers around England would stage elaborate ceremonies in the hope of ensuring a good cider apple harvest the following year. The rituals included hanging cider-soaked toast from the apple trees, encircling the oldest tree, singing, reciting incantations, banging pots and pans and firing shotguns.
Often a wassail king or queen was elected to help awaken the trees and scare away evil spirits.
This weekend’s event has been inspired by that history and will include the crowning of a king and queen, hanging pieces of bread dipped in warm cider on a tree and singing and dancing.
The St Helier Morris Men are also due to perform and those taking part are encouraged to take with them things to make lots of noise, such as whistles and pots and pans.
The event, which is free, takes place at Hamptonne between 12 noon and 2 pm and at the Elms, St Mary, from 2.30 pm until 4.30 pm.
