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Wassail, Wassail, All Over the Town… Woodstock’s Winter Wassail Weekend

Dec 01, 2014 01:02PM ● By Victoria Pipas
Transport yourself back to medieval Europe for a weekend of feasting, music, and merrymaking of all kinds! Woodstock's 31st Annual Wassail Weekend Getaway takes place this year Friday December 12th through Sunday December 14th. Enjoy any or all of the events for a jaunt into holiday celebrations past. Wassail Weekend has been a Woodstock tradition for 31 years and, of course, much longer in its countries of origin. Voted one of Vermont’s Top Ten Winter Events, this very special weekend is surely not to be missed.

The celebration begins at 4pm Friday afternoon with a choral performance on the steps of the Norman Williams Public Library by the Woodstock Elementary Sunrise Chorus. After that, enjoy a production of The Snow Queen (with additional performances on Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 5:30pm) or a festive performance by Cool Yule. Throughout Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, be sure to stop by Billings Farm between 10am and 4pm for a celebration of Christmas at the farm.

Saturday offers even more cheer-inducing events. You might attend the Holiday Craft Fair at the Masonic Hall, and then stop by the Wassail Café on the Green for some hot mulled cider and other wassail treats. Children of all ages will enjoy a reading of A Child’s Christmas in Wales and a seasonal arrangement of carols sung by the Sly Voxes, an eclectic a capella group. At 2pm, be on the green for this year’s 30th Annual Wassail Parade, complete with horse-drawn carriages and festive music. The parade is sponsored by High Horses Therapeutic Riding Center and features riders and performers decked out in 19th century attire. End your evening with a jolly Wassail Feast at the Woodstock Inn at 6pm.

On Sunday, after two days of feasting and celebration, you might enjoy a peaceful performance at 4pm: the Annual Woodstock Messiah Sing. Other ongoing weekend events, such as The Snow Queen, craft fair, and Christmas at Billings Farm, can all be enjoyed on Sunday as well.

Come out and enjoy the holiday season in picturesque Woodstock. Beyond the wide array of events, visitors will just enjoy strolling along a snow-covered street and checking out the brightly lit shop windows. Enjoy the holiday spirit of this beautiful town with those you cherish.

For a full description of the weekend events with times and places, be sure to visit the website.

What event do you most look forward to during Winter Wassail Weekend? Comment below.

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