A Well Dressing is a form of ancient ritual which has survived into present times and probably began as a celebration of thanks for the gift of water from the gods. The custom originated within the English Peak District of Derbyshire and Staffordshire. Large wooden collages are crafted to decorate wells and springs, using flower petals and other natural materials such as berries, seeds, moss and leaves. The term 'well' in this context often denotes a source of water more akin to a spring, with running water, rather than a sunken well.
Well dressings take place from early May throughout the summer months and are part of the traditional English cultural celebration of spring-time.
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