Wassail at the Orchard: A Winter Cider Celebration at Wilson's Orchard & Farm

Start: Saturday, February 21, 2026 7:00PM
End: Saturday, February 21, 2026 10:00PM

Join us Saturday, February 21st from 7:00 - 10:00 PM for our first annual Wassail Celebration at Wilson's Ciderhouse & Venue in Des Moines! Wassailing is one of the oldest traditions in cider culture, where the community gathers together to make loud noises and push away bad spirits and to wake up the trees, ensuring a good apple crop. If you’ve never Wassailed before, here’s the drill: We drink cider, we feast on Old-World fare, we swing dance to Stringfield Band, and then we gather 'round the fire to wake up the apple trees for the 2026 harvest. Think of it as part folklore, part bonfire party, and 100% the best way to spend a February night. Let’s ensure a bountiful 2026 season. Tap the button below to learn more and book your tickets! Each ticket includes two drink tickets, assorted Old-World inspired appetizers from our grazing table, and live music from Stringfield, a group of veteran Des Moines musicians setting the scene for a true pagan celebration with festive bluegrass. We encourage you all to get in the spirit and dress for the occasion (think medieval, Old-World, or orchard inspired) and help us welcome in another fruitful year of apple-growing and cider-making. As weather allows, we'll venture out onto the farm for a bonfire and toast to the orchard for all it provides! This event is intended for adults 21+ and includes an optional outdoor component. Featured Items on the Grazing Table will include: - Assorted Sweet & Savory Hand Pies - Mini Shepherd's Pies - Savory Galette - Mini Beef Wellingtons - Artisanal Cheese Board with Chutneys, Pickles, and Crackers - Mercu - Salmon Tartare Latke - Victoria Sponge Cake - English Trifle Drink tickets will be redeemable for a pint of cider, or select cider based cocktails. Additional drinks will be available for purchase. Tickets are priced per person and subject to sales tax and gratuity. Your confirmation number will act as your ticket (no physical tickets will be distributed). Tickets are non-refundable. This event will be held inside our event venue, located on the east side of the main building. In the case of severe weather, this event will be rescheduled.