| One of the first renaissance fairs in the country was | | | | competition. In addition to the traditional skill games such |
| held in California back in 1963. The brainchild of Phyllis | | | | as archery or throwing the axe, expect to see fun |
| Patterson, this was an event held in the spring and fall | | | | elements like Drench-a-Wench or Soak-a-Bloke. |
| of each year, and it represented a typical English | | | | Animal Displays |
| village of the 16th Century. Thus was born the colorful | | | | Falconry displays are always a popular attraction, and |
| and entertaining spectacle of re-enactment/craft fairs. | | | | the bigger fairs usually set up an arena so they can |
| These days, the events are typically held over a | | | | host a jousting competition, a display not to be missed! |
| weekend, although some have grown into permanent | | | | Music and Dancing |
| theme parks. They enjoy huge popularity, partially due | | | | No self respecting medieval English Village would be |
| to the uniqueness of the experience, with attendees | | | | without a bit of song and dance, and there is usually |
| being encouraged to dress in period costume and to | | | | plenty of both on offer at the renfair. You will find |
| remain in 'character' for the duration of their visit. | | | | musicians, dancers, jugglers, and magicians, all of whom |
| Another reason the renfairs are so popular is the | | | | mingle with the visitors throughout the day, greatly |
| variety of attractions and entertainment available, | | | | enhancing the experience. |
| which virtually guarantee to keep the whole family | | | | Most fairs have an end-of-the-day ritual, a parade or |
| engaged and entertained, from the youngest members | | | | concert where all employees gather and bid farewell |
| right up to the senior citizens! | | | | to the patrons. For those who work at the fair, the last |
| Here are some examples of what you can expect to | | | | concert that a festival holds for the season is |
| find at most renaissance fairs, in which stalls are often | | | | traditionally an emotional moment. |
| set up to form 'streets', through with visitors and live | | | | Renaissance fairs are staged around the United |
| performers mingle. | | | | States at different times of the year. Fair vendors, |
| Food and Drink | | | | participants and crew often work the "faire circuit", |
| One of the most enjoyable aspects of a renfair, | | | | going from event to event as one fair ends and |
| naturally, is the food and drink. But beyond the turkey | | | | another begins. They often camp on-site or nearby |
| and mulled wine, the is very often a large section | | | | and develop close bonds with their fellow performers. |
| devoted to local suppliers, who enter into the spirit of | | | | If you plan to visit a renaissance fair this year, a quick |
| the occasion by attending their stalls in full authentic | | | | search online will reveal plenty of suppliers offering a |
| medieval costume. | | | | huge range of authentic medieval costumes and |
| Games | | | | accessories available for sale or hire. |
| No renaissance fair is complete with a bit of healthy | | | | |