Frankly, we’re reporting on this event because the alliteration is magnificent.  Wassail Weekend is Woodstock’s gift to Vermont and to you, if you’ll join for the weekend. Voted one of Vermont’s Top Ten Winter events, the term has its roots in medieval England referring to the Norse, “ves heill” meaning “to drink to the health”. Ale brewed with spiced apples and sugar was the warm drink given to the singers who went door to door during the Solstice. Christmas became interwoven with celebrations during the darkest time of the year. For the past twenty-four years, Wassail Weekend in Woodstock has welcomed people from near and far to celebrate in unique ways. Journalists have highlighted this special event finding it a unique way to enjoy Vermont during a special time of year. See Country Living Article. Throughout the Christmas Season, Billings Farm & Museum is decorated and offers the perfect opportunity to see what the holidays were like in Vermont in the 19th Century complete with wagon or sleigh rides around the farm.  The highlight of the weekend is a unique Wassail Parade through the center of Woodstock with over fifty horses and riders dressed in holiday costumes and period dress from the early 19th Century. The Green Mountain Horse Association welcomes riders from all over with wagons, surreys and sometimes sleighs, if weather permits. Mr. Claus himself usually puts in an appearance and then heads on to our Little Theater where he greets the children at the magical “Christmas Visions”. Troupes of singers parade the streets, and our arts council, The YOH Players offer entertainment at the Wassail Feast on Friday night hosted by the Woodstock Inn & Resort. Pentangle offers a historic house tour of 5 or so of Woodstock’s notable historic homes. In the evenings, talented professionals guide local actors in a Christmas musical at the Town Hall.

There is usually a reading of “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” at noon at the Norman Williams Library. An open house at the Woodstock Historical Society on Friday night offers historic music through the beautifully decorated Dana House.

Shops are often open late, the streets are decorated with white lights and usually Mother Nature provides a dusting of snow (or possibly a few feet).  Rarely can you experience the holidays in such a picture-perfect place. Click here to see Vermont Life Video’s two minute film of the joy of Wassail! Make your reservations ahead of time to be sure to enjoy all the weekend has to offer. 2009 schedule of events.