Here we come a-wassailing

Among the leaves so green . . .

The carol is familiar, but if I asked you what “wassailing” actually means, what would you say? Perhaps that it’s an ancient word from the Anglo-Saxon language meaning “be well” or “good health to you”?

Well, if that’s your answer, you’re right. 😉 Historically, wassailing was a winter feast (say, for instance, Yule) or New Year’s activity. It mostly involved a special toast from the lord of the manor, and a toast from his guests in reply . . . oh, and drinking “wassail:” warmed alcohol mixed with spices, cream, and eggs. Over the years it expanded to include going around to your neighbors’ houses to wish them well, share a drink, and maybe sing a song or two. Et voila–caroling!

With the advent of Christianity, wassailing became a Twelfth Night activity. And while today we don’t think of going “wassailing” any more, we do still participate in caroling, exchanging well wishes, and drinking mulled wine, cider, or eggnog! Pretty neat, given that the tradition has been around for thousands of years. 😀

Selected Sources

Historic UK has a thorough article about the history of wassailing, and a more fun and festive article can be found at whychristmas.com.