Mid-January brings one of Somerset’s oldest rituals to the Mid-Somerset Showground as the community gathers for its traditional Wassail. This ancient ceremony blesses the cider apple trees for the year ahead, driving away unwanted spirits with music, noise and a roaring bonfire. A Wassail Queen is chosen to lead the proceedings before everyone heads indoors for an evening of warm food, lively entertainment and proper Somerset cider. The 2026 celebration takes place on Wednesday 14 January, with hot food from Denela’s and post-ceremony revelry in the Yeoman Building. A joyful winter gathering that keeps a much-loved rural tradition alive.