I went to the annual Wassail and Mari Lwyd parade at the Gower Heritage Centre today. Last night was Hen Galan, the “old” (Julian) New Year, celebrated in Wales with the Mari Lwyd, but as well as the riotous Wassail yesterday evening (with much local Shed Head Cider by all accounts), there was also a family-oriented event today. Here’s Husb wearing our own Mari Madarch Hud (Magic Mushroom Mari in pink) aided and abetted by a small Ostler, a young relative who guided the Mari Lwyd around the orchard. They’re helping to drive away the evil spirits of the Winter and bless the apple trees to encourage a good crop of apples for next year’s cider harvest.
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