McHenry County, rich in history and tradition itself, has yet another hidden treasure for all to enjoy this holiday season—the Boar’s Head Festival presented by Zion Lutheran Church of Marengo. King Wenceslas will be in good spirits this holiday season as he extends his hospitality to all the good people of McHenry County who visit his manor home for this 9th annual celebration of history, traditions and the true spirit of Christmas.
Ceremonial Traditions of Years Past
The Boar’s Head Festival dates back to the M9iddle Ages, when the boar was a feared beast roaming about the forest—a symbol of evil and despair. The festival, as it is presented today, can be traced back to 1340 at The Queen’s College in Oxford, England.
As legend has it, the festival came about through an unfortunate incident involving one of the college scholar’s journey to midnight Mass. During his walk through the woods, the scholar was confronted by a wild boar. Armed with only his metal-bound book of Aristotle, he defended himself by ramming it into the animal’s mouth, causing it to choke to death. By common practice, the beast would be prepared to eat, but this beast was much more than a meal: it was a victory that was celebrated in an elaborate procession to the dining room that included carolers singing in celebration of victory against evil. The boar was garnished with berries, greenery and fruits.
By 1607, a more finessed banquet was established at St. John’s College in Cambridge, England, during the holiday season to incorporate the “Boar’s Head Carol.”
Eventually, the seasonal festivities integrated celebrations of Christmas. During Christmas feasts at old English manors, the boar’s head was presented to the noblemen as a representation of the defeat of evil overall.
The court of King Wenceslas provides a first act to the celebration of Christmas and a chance to see the traditions of medieval courts and the elaborate service provided to a king. Along with the good king, beefeaters, court jesters, court dancers and ever-present wassailers bring the court to life. As with all traditional celebrations, interpretive reflections of the past are integrated into the present.
A Christmas Celebration
Zion Lutheran Church of Marengo is one of the few in northern Illinois that honors this great tradition. The continued success of this production can be attributed to the overwhelming volunteer support and participation of the congregation, family and friends. You will find multiple generations taking part in the excitement. The call for participants is open to all, from second graders to their grandparents. There are more than 300 volunteers who contribute their time, talents and passion to make this event a continued success. From setting up the stage, to playing in the orchestra, there is something for everyone.
Last year’s festival drew more than 900 guests. Even with less-than-desired weather conditions, people traveled from near and far to take part in this magical experience. It is common for someone to see the Boar’s Head Festival for the first time and be in complete awe. Their return signifies the start of their family’s Christmas season year after year.
O Little Town of Marengo
In the first weekend of December, Zion Lutheran Church will again be transformed into the medieval manor home of King Wenceslas. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by torch bearers standing proudly at the front doors. Servants escort everyone to their accommodations, with all the pleasantries you would expect from this step back in time. A program serves as a guide and includes song lyrics—guests are expected to join in song.
The evening will start with the lighting of a single candle by the Yule Sprite, which represents the light of God in a world of darkness. The feast begins with the entrance of the herald banners, beefeaters and the ceremonial boar’s head procession. Amidst the formalities, court entertainment and the crazy antics of jesters tumbling about will delight the king and his guests. The beautiful court dancers glide through the aisles and onstage with synchronized grace.
As the celebrating winds down, the audience is taken to the little town of Bethlehem, with the gathering of shepherds, angels and the three wise men as they prepare for the birth of Christ. An angel choir sings to the newborn king and the celebration of Christmas begins. The king himself will serenade the audience with a haunting version of “What Child is This.”
We Wish You a Merry Christmas
The program is offered at no cost, but ticket reservations are required to gain entrance into the performance. A free-will offering will be collected at the end of the program, and all guests are invited to an open reception of homemade Christmas cookies and warm wassail to conclude the evening.
Three performances will be held the first week of December: Saturday, December 6 at 6 p.m. and Sunday, December 7 at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Doors open 45 minutes before show time. For more information about reservations or to order tickets, please call 815-923-4515. Zion Lutheran Church is located at 412 Jackson St. in Marengo.
