Wassails (and wassailing) are a traditional folk celebration specific to British cider culture. People gather amongst in an cider orchard on twelfth night (Jan 17th) to give thanks for their harvest and ceremonially give back to the oldest and largest apple tree by gathering beneath it. With thanks, they return cider to it by pouring an offering around its base and then placing toast (often soaked it cider) up into the branches. The crowd then must make as much loud noise as they can together in an effort to drive off any evil that may be present (often using shotguns.) Everyone then eats, drinks, laughs, sings and enjoys the rest of their night together. #CiderHunters
