The Mari Lwyd is led to the gates of Chepstow Castle, Chepstow, Wales

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The Chepstow Wassail and mari Lwyd customs combines two traditional events in one, the English Wassailing of the cider orchards and the Welsh Mari Lwyd custom. This is an ancient Welsh custom which probably originated in South Wales, similar to “first footing at New Year” Traditionally a horse’s skull or representation of same is carried from house to house by the Mari Lwyd group. At the house a kind of singing competition between the group and the people of the house begins after the group has knocked the door and requested entry for food and drink. Eventually, the Mari group are given entry and sustenance, there is more singing and capers and then after blessing the household, off to the next house.

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Size: 5067px × 3378px
Location: Chepstow, UK
Photo credit: © Nick Turner / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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