21st June may seem like just another summer day, but since Neolithic times it has been a reason for celebration. Summer Solstice, or Midsummer, sees the longest daylight hours of the year – this simple fact has given rise to some very old traditions and folklore associated with this day.
Some may observe the day in their own way, keeping a candle burning all night, watching the sunrise or sunset, or creating solstice flower crowns. Other’s may join larger celebrations, with music, feasting and storytelling – very much like the celebrations would have been carried out in the past.
Last year, Fordhall Farm hosted their first seasonal celebration of this nature, with event producer Suzanne Antoney-Byrnes describing it as ‘an evening of fun, food and folklore’. Following the success of this event, Fordhall Community Land Initiative manager, Charlotte Hollins, has once again been working closely with Suzanne and funding from the Shropshire Good Food Partnership to bring further seasonal merriment to the farm!
Professional storyteller Jake Evans will be revisiting, to thrill with tales of the mystical around the firepits, while folk band Litha will accompany the celebrations with their live traditional music…and of course there will be a midsummer themed feast of Fordhall fayre! Guests will be able to dig into a delightful array of dishes, from slow roast pork, beetroot and goat’s cheese quiche, locally made sunshine bread, chocolate beehive cupcakes…and that’s just naming a few!
Fordhall Community Land Initiative Manager, Charlotte Hollins, said: ‘I am very excited to be working with Suzanne and other local musicians and artists again, bringing people together for an event which celebrates connection with each other and the landscape. ‘It will be a joy to welcome back both Jake and Litha, who never fail to entertain with their wonderful stories and music.
We do hope guests will also enjoy the traditional Fordhall Grazing Table buffet, with its special solstice twist. All the dishes are freshly prepared, and made with local and organic ingredients – we can of course cater for an array of dietary requirements too, so no-one misses out on any part of the celebration.’
Fordhall’s Summer Solstice event is taking place on 21st June, 7pm-10pm. Tickets are £20pp, and must be pre-booked by visiting shop.fordhallfarm.com/shop/ or calling 01630 638 696. A cash bar will be available on the night.
