Oak Apple Day to be marked at Commandery - The Worcester Observer

Oak Apple Day to be marked at Commandery

Worcester Editorial 26th May, 2017   0

A WEEKEND of traditional spring festivities at The Commandery in Worcester will celebrate the restoration of the English monarchy in 1660 for Oak Apple Day.

Visitors to the historic museum will be able to take a step back in time this bank holiday weekend with Maypole and Morris dancing, music and a 17th century football match taking place.

Entry is free for city residents and the events kick off from 10am until 5pm on Saturday, May 27 and Monday, May 29 and from 1.30pm until 5pm on Sunday, May 28.

Oak Apple Day originally celebrated the day that Charles II returned from exile to reclaim the throne in 1660. He declared the event should be remembered annually on May 29, which was also his birthday. It remained a public holiday for 200 years until it was abolished by the Victorians in 1859.




The Commandery will be adorned with oak leaves in memory of the oak tree in which Charles II hid after escaping from his loss at the Battle of Worcester in 1651 to Cromwell’s Parliamentarian army.

Visitors will be able to meet historical characters and learn their stories in a living history camp in the grounds and uncover the ‘corrupting’ influence of coffee in the 17th Century.


There will also be opportunities to learn some classic English Morris dancing steps, play nostalgic Restoration period children’s games in the beautiful gardens and join in with a 17th Century football match.

Charlie Fothergill, The Commandery marketing officer, said: “The Oak Apple Day celebration at The Commandery is one of the most joyful events of the year. It is a fantastic combination of old fashioned spring-time family fun and a glimpse into the significance of the history of Worcester.”

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