Andover residents are invited to start 2026 with a day of conservation, community and seasonal tradition at Harmony Woods (The Diamond Wood) on Saturday 10 January, with free events running from 10am to 4pm.
The day brings together Andover Trees United, local volunteers, families and partner groups for a celebration of both practical woodland care and centuries-old winter customs.
Community Conservation Morning (10am–1pm)
The day begins with Andover Trees United’s first Community Conservation event of the year, welcoming volunteers of all ages and abilities to help care for Harmony Woods.
Activities will include tree planting, mulching, weeding and winter maintenance, helping to protect and nurture the woodland during the colder months. The session is designed to be relaxed and sociable, with tea, biscuits and plenty of opportunity to meet fellow volunteers.
No experience is needed, all tools and materials are provided, and people are welcome to drop in for as long as they wish – whether for an hour or the full morning. Organisers hope the event will also encourage residents who have never visited Harmony Woods before to come along and get involved.
Andover Wassail Celebration (from 2pm)
At 2pm, the focus shifts from practical conservation to celebration with the Andover Wassail, a lively winter tradition rooted in English folklore.
The ceremony will begin in the Hazel Circle with a welcome from Amanda Kane-Smith on behalf of Andover Trees United, before being led by Andover Pagans. Participants will be invited to form a communal circle before taking part in “beating the bounds”, using pots and pans to create noise and symbolically drive away negativity for the year ahead.
The procession will then move to the apple trees, where the Green Man, a folkloric symbol of renewal and nature’s cycles, will bless the trees. Cider will be poured onto the roots, and children will be invited to hang pieces of toast in the branches to “feed the robins”, following traditional orchard lore.
Music and performance play a central role in the afternoon, with traditional Wassail songs from the Andover Museum Loft Singers, followed by energetic dances from Mayfly Morris. The celebration will culminate in a community dance open to everyone, before closing words of thanks from Andover Pagans.
A Woodland Built by the Community
Speaking about the day, Abbey Sadler, Community Engagement Officer, said:
“Harmony Woods is a living testament to the dedication of local schoolchildren, volunteers and supporters across Andover. Beginning the year with both conservation and celebration captures the spirit of this woodland perfectly. We hope residents from across the town will join us – whether to lend a hand in the morning, celebrate in the afternoon, or enjoy the whole day together.”
Both events are free to attend, and families are very welcome. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Residents are encouraged to book a place for the morning, the afternoon, or both by contacting Abbey Sadler at abbey.sadler@andovertrees.org.uk.
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