A traditional Twelfth Night sing-along session to end the Christmas holidays is coming to Ernie’s Roadhouse in Hespeler on Sunday.
Presented by Mill Race Folk Traditions, Pub Caroling for Twelfth Night will feature the music of Orange Peel Carollers and Village Band.
They will lead everyone in old village carols from Yorkshire and Southwest England, which are still sung in pubs today.
For folk musician Brad McEwen, Twelfth Night is a tradition that helps bring people together who feel emotionally overwhelmed by commercial holiday celebrations.
Music and song, enjoyed by friends gathered together, are also a balm to the short days and nights long at the turn of the year, he says in a press release.
“The Christmas Season can be a very difficult one for many people. There are a lot of expectations that don't seem to be realized. Many are alone. Memories are awakened that are sad,” McEwen says.
That’s why he helped again organize the event in Cambridge. The last time Mill Race hosted Twelfth Night celebrations was in 2018.
“We in the Northern Hemisphere need to observe this dark midwinter season and ignite some light against this darkness. Christmas and New Year tend to become emotional minefields for many, and crass, shallow consumerism has dominated a centuries-old festival,” McEwan says.
January 5 is the Twelfth Night on the calendar, which is the culmination of the Christmas season in years past. Brad sees it as a chance to observe and celebrate with friendly company.
“Raise your voices in song. You don't have to know the words or tunes. Songbooks are available. Just join in!”
The event runs from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Ernie's Roadhouse, 7 Queen Street West. Doors open to the meeting room at 2:30 p.m. and admission is by donation.
