Step into the World of Ancient Winter Traditions this December
Butser Ancient Farm invites you on a journey through time at this year’s Midwinter’s Magical Quest: Yules of Yesteryear. Set against the backdrop of Butser’s historic farm buildings, this immersive, family-friendly event offers a chance to experience the winter customs of the Saxons, Romans, Celts, and Neolithic peoples. Take part in hands-on activities, meet characters from folklore, and discover the magic of ancient winter festivals as they come to life through exciting new characters.
A Magical Journey Through Winter’s Folklore
This December, visitors will embark on a quest to find the missing Holly King. Along the way, visitors will discover timeless traditions, from the cosy fireside tales in an Iron Age roundhouse to the lively festivities of Roman Saturnalia. Journey through different historical periods and learn about the customs and legends that shaped the winter season for ancient peoples.
Yule Traditions in the Saxon Hall with Rowena, Lady of Yule
Join Rowena, the Lady of Yule, in the cosy Evergreen Saxon Hall for Glæd Geol, an ancient Scandinavian celebration of the return of the sun. Rowena, connected to the fae folk and able to communicate with the deer, will share folklore about the Tomten, or Nisse spirits who protect homes during winter. This session includes natural crafting, where visitors will make their own Yule-inspired crafts, learning about the customs of the Saxons and their celebration of the Winter Solstice.
Revelry and Generosity in the Roman Villa with Felix, Lord of Misrule
Step into Butser’s Roman Villa and experience the riotous festivities of Saturnalia! This festival of role-reversal and merrymaking features Felix, the Lord of Misrule, who will guide visitors through the ancient Roman traditions of feasting, gift-giving, and games. Visitors will even have the chance to make their own sigillaria traditional Roman wax figures given as gifts during the season.
Winter Wishes and Storytelling in the Iron Age
Travel back to the Iron Age, where winter solstice celebrations involved feasts and the sharing of stories. Gather around the fire in the Great Roundhouse for ancient tales, warm drinks, and sweet treats. Don’t forget to write your own winter wish and place it on the Winter Wishing Trees, where a special message will guide you on your journey.
The Quest for the Holly King and the Deer Queen’s Blessing
In British mythology, the Holly King rules the darker half of the year until the Winter Solstice, when his reign ends and the Oak King takes over. This year, however, the Holly King is missing! Visitors will need to travel through time to gather wisdom and find the Holly King to ensure his reign lasts long enough to bring winter’s gifts. At the end of their quest, guests will meet the Deer Queen in the Neolithic Horton Longhouse, drawing inspiration from Celtic goddesses like Epona and Danu. The Deer Queen represents the bond between humanity and nature, offering hope for the new season ahead.
A Festive Family Experience
Midwinter’s Magical Quest offers families an unforgettable experience, filled with storytelling, crafting, and ancient traditions. Kristin Devey, who developed the event, expressed her excitement: “We’re delighted to bring even more folklore, characters, and ancient customs to life this year. It’s a chance to step away from modern distractions and reconnect with the true spirit of the season.”
Event Details
Dates: Every weekend in December
Location: Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, Hampshire, PO8 0BG
Midwinter’s Magical Quest runs three times a day on weekends from Saturday 7th December to Sunday 22nd December 2024. Other events include Tales of Winter Magic, Yuletide Storytelling, and a Winter Solstice Celtic Celebration.
