Posted By: Editor
January 8, 2025
Prepare yourself for a night of cider-fuelled, nearly-traditional music and performance on Friday 17th January as the Bristol Urban Wassail returns to Exchange on Old Market.
Live music comes from cult Scrumpy & Western band Skimmity Hitchers with support from The Shinkickers, featuring members of legendary Bristol cider-punk outfit The Surfin’ Turnips. DJ Buttercup Joe will be spinning fruity tunes until late.
The night will also feature an (almost) traditional Wassail play, performed by members of the audience in true DIY spirit. Expect to encounter home-made costumes, questionable accents and the gaffa taping of toast to Apple Tree Man. Real cider will be available on the bar, to help proceedings flow merrily along.
The Wassail is an ancient rural tradition of blessing orchards for a successful incoming harvest, and many such events happen around the time of Twelfth Night across the West Country. This specifically Bristol event, however, has a distinctly urban twist with an emphasis on participation and fun.
Skimmity Hitchers frontman and lead cider imbiber Tatty Smart explained “The Wassail is a true celebration of the holy apple and West Country identity, and this is Bristol’s very own event. Come and pay homage to the city’s abandoned orchards, gnarly park trees and super strength cider-drinkers!”
Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are £12 plus booking fee from www.hdfst.uk/e116157
Exchange is a 14+ venue. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
