47th Annual Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival
At University Christian Church in Fort Worth, Christmas doesn’t end on Dec. 25 — it’s the beginning of a celebration that extends into the New Year. For over four decades, UCC has marked the end of the Christmas season with the Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival, a family-friendly event held each year on the first weekend in January.
The festival, which takes place in the UCC Sanctuary, is held in honor of Epiphany. Traditionally, Epiphany commemorates the day the Magi presented their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the Christ Child. However, the Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival is more than just a celebration of Epiphany — it’s a blend of two symbolic stories that have become intertwined over the centuries: the triumph of good over evil and the journey of Christ’s birth.
“Boar’s Head is always presented at Epiphany, so it's a wonderful event for people to attend after the busyness of the holiday season. They leave with a sense of comfort, peace and brightness, often commenting afterwards, ‘This was absolutely beautiful!’ or 'This is the perfect way to finish the holidays. We come every year and wouldn’t miss it!’” says Cyrena Allen, co-chair of the BHYLF Guild. “It sends you off into the new year with this feeling of happiness and hope, knowing that good things are to come. It is meant to be a gift to our community.”
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The entrance of the Boar’s Head Company with the boar’s head symbolizing the triumph of good over evil
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The presentation of the Yule Log
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The Jester interacts with the characters and audience throughout the festival
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Good King Wenceslas and attendants help the poor man
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The dancers perform
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The Magi present their gifts
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Adoration of the Christ Child
A Merging of Two Legends
The roots of the Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival stretch back to medieval times, and the festival itself is based on two key stories that have been passed down through generations. The first tale, the Boar’s Head, is inspired by an old legend from Oxford, England.
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The Beefeaters on guard during the senior minister’s greeting
According to the story, a student studying in the forest was attacked by a wild boar. In an attempt to defend himself, the student used his book — said to be a volume of Aristotle’s works — to shove into the boar’s mouth, ultimately slaying the animal. The message taken from this story is knowledge and wisdom triumph over brute force, a lesson embraced by the church, becoming a symbol of good prevailing over evil.
The second tale, the Yule Log, has its roots in winter solstice traditions, symbolizing warmth, light and hope. This festival merges the symbolism of the Yule Log with the story of King Wenceslas, the angelic message to the shepherds, the journey of the Magi and the adoration of the Christ Child. Each of these elements come together in the performance, leading the audience on a journey that ultimately celebrates the birth of Jesus.
The magnificent music, elaborate costumes and delightful choreography are intricately designed to create a unique and full-sensory experience. With over 300 participants, the festival is an enormous compilation of talent. The UCC Chancel and Handbell Choirs, along with the Fort Worth Civic Orchestra, perform live music, a glorious combination of the original score and traditional pieces, while actors and dancers captivate the audience throughout the sanctuary in exquisite, custom-made costumes. Behind the scenes, an army of volunteers carefully crafts the costumes, makeup, props and set that make each performance come alive.
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The Angel’s Announcement
“The audience is encouraged to watch the action and multi-generational characters closely and even participate if they choose, by singing along in parts of some hymns or carols they will recognize, like Good King Wenceslas, or by children skipping along with the Waits and Wassailers during the Wassail Carol,” Allen says.
A Tradition to Close the Christmas Season
The Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival takes place Jan. 4-5, with two performances each day at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, though a limited number of reserved seats are available for purchase. Tickets for reserved seating are on sale now, and can be purchased through the UCC Website. For the free seating areas, you are encouraged to arrive early for the best options.
The festival is not just a way to close out the Christmas season — it’s a celebration of hope, knowledge and the light of Christ that guides everyone into the New Year. With its rich history, intricate details and heartwarming message, it’s a tradition that families, friends and visitors from all around the area look forward to year after year.
For more information about the festival or to reserve tickets, visit https://universitychristian.org/bhylf/.
