Waterlooville, Hampshire – Butser Ancient Farm, a popular open-air experimental archaeology museum, is inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the rich tapestry of ancient winter traditions at this year’s Midwinter’s Magical Quest: Yules of Yesteryear. Set against the backdrop of Butser’s historic buildings, this immersive, family-friendly event will take place on all weekends in December, from Saturday 7th until Sunday 22nd December, 2024.
The event, which is distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/, will offer a journey through time to experience the winter customs of the Saxons, Romans, Celts, and Neolithic peoples. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the magic of winter festivals, meet characters from folklore, and engage in hands-on activities and crafts inspired by the past. This year, Butser has developed exciting new characters to bring more Yules of Yesteryear to life for visitors.
“This December, step into a world where folklore comes alive, and the spirits of midwinter are honoured as visitors embark on a quest to bring a message to the Deer Queen,” said Kristin Devey, who developed the winter experience at Butser Ancient Farm. “The Holly King, guardian of Winter, has gone missing, and your journey to find him will take you through an immersive blend of time-honoured traditions.”
The Evergreen Saxon Hall will be the first stop on the quest, where visitors will meet Rowena, the Lady of Yule, who carries the magic of the ancient Forest of Bere. “She whispers to the deer, and they listen, a gift likely bestowed by her connection to the fae folk,” explained Devey. “Visitors will also hear about the Scandinavian folklore of the Tomten or Nisse—helpful household spirits who guard the farm and home in winter.”
Next, guests will step into Butser’s Roman Villa, where they will immerse themselves in the festive chaos of Saturnalia. This Roman holiday was a time of role-reversal, where masters served slaves, and everyone joined in joyous feasting, games, and gift-giving. “Meet Felix, a slave who has been elevated to the role of Lord of Misrule for the day and join in the spirit of Saturnalia by making your own sigillaria—small wax figures that were the traditional Roman gifts of the season,” said Devey.
The Iron Age will be the next stop on the quest, where visitors will gather in the Great Roundhouse to hear ancient tales around the fire, sip warm drinks, and indulge in sweet treats. The Winter Wishing Trees will also be available for guests to share their hopes for the season. “Allow the fire, food, and friendship of ancient gatherings to echo through the ages and bring warmth to the darkest night,” said Devey.
The final stop on the quest will be the Neolithic Horton Longhouse, where visitors will meet the radiant Deer Queen. “Her character draws on British and Celtic mythology, inspired by goddesses like Epona, the protector of horses, and Danu, a mother figure tied to nature,” said Devey. “The Deer Queen embodies the bond between humans and the natural world, reminding us of the turning of the seasons and the new hope that Spring brings.”
Devey shared her excitement about this year’s Midwinter Quest, stating, “We are delighted to welcome visitors to Butser this winter for a truly magical experience. This year’s quest brings to life even more folklore, characters, and ancient traditions, offering a chance to reconnect with the heart of the season—away from the rush and commercialism of modern festivities.”
In addition to the Midwinter’s Magical Quest, Butser Ancient Farm will also be offering a full schedule of festive events and workshops, including Tales of Winter Magic, Yuletide Storytelling, and a Winter Solstice Celtic Celebration complete with drumming, poetry, and prose.
Tickets for the Midwinter’s Magical Quest can be purchased on the Butser Ancient Farm website at https://www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/whats-on/christmas/midwinters-magical-quest-family.
About Butser Ancient Farm:Butser Ancient Farm is an open-air, experimental archaeology museum located in the picturesque Hampshire countryside. The farm offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the lives of our ancient ancestors through reconstructed buildings, authentic crafts, and immersive events. As a not-for-profit, independently run community interest company (CIC), Butser Ancient Farm relies on the support of many organizations and individuals, as well as their own fundraising events, to make their research and education work possible. For more information about Butser Ancient Farm, please visit www.butserancientfarm.co.uk.