If you’ve never been to a Renaissance festival or faire, you may have acquired some strange ideas about what is involved. I just want to encourage you to give it a try if you never have, and I want to share some tips on how to get the most out of your experience! Renaissance faires are usually set during the reign of either Queen Elizabeth I or King Henry VIII and employ performers, artisans, food service people, grounds crew, and more.

Misconceptions

• You will see people in various types of period clothing, but keep in mind that a renfest is not a park full of men in tights and women in corsets, talking in strange accents and trying to force you to do the same. There are many levels of participation, and while some enthusiasts may not appreciate it, there are often just as many people in normal, present-day clothing as there are people in costume. Remember also that those are costumes. These people don’t dress that way all-year-round.
• No one is going to bite your head off for speaking in plain old modern English. In fact, they won’t even look at you strangely.
• If renfest-ers are strange for enjoying the experience, at least they’re nice weirdos. I’ve found that the vast majority of people I’ve run into at our local Renaissance Faire are very friendly people. You’d be hard pressed to find an unkind face there. It’s always a laid-back, fun day.
• There is more to do than simply watch a joust! Have you ever ridden an elephant? Have you tried your hand at archery? Have you tasted mead? These are just a few examples of fun things to try.

Getting the Most

My husband told me from the beginning, and I now tell you, that to get the most from a renfest, you really should allow yourself to participate. As much as you’re comfortable, at least. Here are some tips:

1. Wear period clothing if possible. The faire we go to has a costume rental just inside the entrance, where you can stop and be fitted for an outfit. They come in all sizes. I was worried about being too big, but they have sizes way larger than mine! Last year, I wore my own flowy divided skirt and rented just a blouse and vest, and it worked very well. This year, I’m wearing my own clothes, but we’re going to stop at one of the other costume shops inside the faire to look for a blouse to purchase. That way I’ll be able to enjoy going to the faire multiple times this year without worrying about costume rental. Your costume doesn’t have to be extravagant or uncomfortable, but it will help you get in the mood and to enjoy the spirit of the events. Have you ever wondered what people wore during that time period? What would it feel like to wear that clothing? I was very, very hesitant the first time, but I enjoyed it immensely!

2. Drink some mead. I know, I know. I don’t like beer either. And the mead is not much better. But a small cup is something you have to try at least once!

3. Eat a turkey leg, or at least part of one. Messy? Yes. Too much protein for one person? I’d say so. But there’s something goofy and fun about walking around in costume biting off chunks from a turkey leg. I don’t know how to explain it.

4. Visit the shops and watch the shows. It’s pretty fun to see glass being blown, bare-chested, fire-eating men, and belly dancers. Cheering for the jousters may be your thing, or trying  your knife-throwing skills. There’s a lot to do! Take your time and visit any interesting-looking shops. (One of my husband’s favorites is the shop that sells liquid candy tube things.)

5. People-watch. Yeah, there’s a lot to see and do, and you can keep moving all day and do  it all. But there’s also something fun about sitting down for a while and watching the other renfest-ers. Watch them interact, look at their costumes, and give your legs a break. You won’t be missing out; people-watching is, in my opinion, just as much a part of the experience as all the rest.

Scarborough Faire

Our local renfest is called Scarborough Faire, and it runs from April 10 – May 31 this year in Waxahachie, TX. If you’ve never been, I’d highly recommend it! They’re open on weekends, aside from that last Monday. Memorial Day is a big deal, and the last day to go.

Have you been to Scarby or maybe another renfest? What’s your favorite part of the experience? Or least favorite? If you’ve never been, why not?? Let me know in the comments!