THE COMMANDERY will be holding a 17th-century style fete in celebration of Oak Apple Day.
Dancers, entertainers and re-enactors will all come together to bring the 350-year old spring tradition to life over a weekend from Saturday, May 28 to Sunday, May 29.
Visitors can meet civilians from the restoration period in a 17th Century coffee house, cheer on the traditional maypole or Morris dancers and learn some skills with the entertainer’s tuition.
There is also a chance to learn more about Oak Apple Day’s origins, which arose from events on May 29, 1660 when Charles II returned from exile to London to reclaim the throne.
After The Battle of Worcester in 1651, the king escaped enemy soldiers by hiding in an oak tree and, loving an excuse for celebration, declared the day a public holiday.
The Commandery will be covered in oak leaves on the anniversary of these events with the weekend culminating in a humorous performance of Charles II’s escape after losing at the Battle of Worcester.
David Nash, manager of The Commandery, said: “Last year’s event was a wonderful bringing together of The Commandery’s civil war history and a cheerful spring celebration for local families.
“This special tradition has such relevance for Worcester that we have hopes for it to spread across the city in future.”
Oak Apple Weekend at The Commandery will be from Saturday, May 28 at 10am to 5pm until Sunday, May 29 at 1.30pm to 5pm.
Entry is free for Worcester City residents. For those outside the city an adult ticket which includes entry to The Commandery is £5.50 and children £2.50.
For more information contact The Commandery on 01905 361821 or for event details and visitor information see www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk
