The Orchardists' Wassail

A form of Wassailing has existed since the Age of Renewal, brought to the Material Plane by the Fey and Elves when the Antimagic Curtains were pulled down by Aegis. Wassailing was common practice in many realms for the Fey, as well as the realm of the Cymry (before it collapsed and the Cymry became the Elves), and the traditions have remained mostly the same over the Ages, despite the rises and falls.

During the Ages of Chaos and early Darkness, Wassailing continued in only the most remote and sacred areas of the world, protected by Sylvan magic. While these places were sanctuaries, those that cared for them were secretive and kept their rituals isolated from those who visited them. This was mainly to prevent outsiders with nefarious intentions from disrupting or corrupting the rituals, and thus removing the protections of the sacred spaces. It wasn't until the middle of the Age of Darkness that people began planting new orchards, and the concept of the Orchardists' Wassail spread beyond the bounds of those sacred spaces. These Wassails were often simple ceremonies, done amongst a small number of community members, while others would protect the surrounding area. They involved the practice of offering a Wassail Drink to the oldest or most valuable tree in the orchard, before singing healing songs until the sun set.

The Orchardists' Wassail now practiced in parts of Eirinn evolved from those early ceremonies into the longer, more community-driven affair that it is today. These Wassails now extend into the evening, and involve more complex customs, decorations and music. The Wassail Drink, which was previously a spiced brew based on what healing spices were available locally, has now evolved to more specifically require honey, nutmeg, ginger, lemon and sherry. This reflects the greater availability of spices across Eirinn, and the spread of communications about what kinds of Wassail seemed to produce better effects.

• A Wassail Bowl (typically made of sycamore wood, earthenware or ceramics)
• Wassail Brew (generally made with a base of apple/pear cider or ale, simmered with spices)
• Garlands with wooden tokens for healing, awakening, and fertility
• Musical instruments
• Toasted bread

Orchardists, their family, and their employees all take part in the ceremony where they are able to. The ritual is generally led by the Orchardist themselves, though some communities with local Sages, Druids or Agricultural Healers will have these individuals lead instead. Members of the churches of Agriculture or Nature deities may travel from their churches and offer their services in leading the rituals if they are able.

The Orchardists' Wassail is observed on the first of Palesun, usually beginning around midday and going on into the evening. While the ceremony is typically only required on the one day, some Orchardists like to offer smaller, more private Wassails for the next four days after the first, in a bid to truly gain the blessings of the local spirits.