Honey Hope Farm, a local organisation dedicated to promoting mental health recovery and community wellbeing, is staging a special 'Wassailing' weekend on Saturday, 13th January 2024 at 14:30 and again on Sunday the 14th at 10am at their main site on Alfreton Road in Little Eaton, which, they say, promises to be a joyous celebration of nature, friendship, and new beginnings.
The concept of wassailing dates back centuries, originating from ancient English traditions of blessing apple orchards and ensuring a fruitful harvest. Honey Hope Farm invites everyone, whether new to the community or longtime residents, to come together to awaken nature and bid farewell to a challenging 2023, making way for a brighter and more promising 2024.
The event will feature various activities to engage and delight attendees. Guests are encouraged to bring pots, pans, and noisy musical instruments to join in the waking of the trees, with gifts to the tree guardians being an integral part of the ceremony. Tree dressings will be displayed around the community tree, providing an opportunity for individuals to leave heartfelt messages on note cards dedicated to someone special in their lives.
In addition to the festive rituals, tree planting and gifts to the tree spirits will further enhance the magical atmosphere of the event. To spur the party spirits, mulled cider, which will be non-alcoholic, will be available for toasting and spreading the warmth of camaraderie.
Bridget Adams-Shaw, the Managing Director of Honey Hope Farm, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, saying, "I am so proud to be part of something that brings the local community together. It's a wonderful opportunity to shake off the challenges of the past year and awaken nature for an amazing 2024. We can't wait to welcome everyone to the farm and share in the joyous celebrations."
Attendees are encouraged to RSVP for the event by clicking here. For those with accessibility requirements, please include them when RSVPing to provide necessary support. The facilities at Honey Hope Farm are still undergoing repairs from storm damage, and facilities are limited.
Join Honey Hope Farm for an afternoon filled with merriment, connection, and a renewed appreciation for the power of community. Come and be part of the first gathering of the year and experience the magic of wassailing together.
Honey Hope Farm is a dedicated organization founded by individuals with personal experience of mental health recovery. By creating a safe haven within a smallholding, the farm promotes wellbeing activities, cultivates rare breed animals, and provides locally grown produce. Their diverse offerings include Buzzcraft, Carrot Club peer support groups, a Community Allotment and a welcoming campfire Circle Space for sharing personal experiences. Sessions for service users and small group experience days are also available, fostering a supportive and inclusive community.