Barlaston’s traditional wassail will return on New Year’s Eve, with organisers confirming details of tonight’s event.
Now in its 21st year, the wassail brings together a torchlit walk, an impromptu village play and a symbolic fire finale, all rooted in local storytelling and shared participation. As in previous years, the event is free to attend and open to anyone who wants to take part.
The evening begins at 9.30 pm at Barlaston Village Green car park, ST12 9AB. From there, walkers head out together, setting the scene for the performance later in the night. People are encouraged to wrap up warm, bring a torch, and wear sturdy footwear. Organisers have said the ground is not too muddy, and the forecast is currently dry – but cold!
A key part of the tradition is making a bit of noise along the way. Whistles, bells and homemade noisemakers are all welcome and help add to the atmosphere as the group moves through the village.
Between 10.45 pm and 11 pm, the play takes place at The Upper House, ST12 9AE. Unlike a conventional performance, the play is acted by the walkers themselves, with people stepping into roles on the night. The story tells how Stone and Barlaston are said to have got their names.
At around 11.20 pm, Beornwulf ascends to Valhalla, marked by a fire-lit moment at The Upper House. This is followed, at about 11.30 pm, by a procession back down to the Village Green car park with the Viking ship, which is then set ablaze in a carefully managed finale.
As midnight approaches, everyone gathers back on the Village Green. The New Year is welcomed in by forming a circle around the tree and singing Auld Lang Syne together.
