There was a time when the term “Renaissance Faire” would get you worried looks of your social ineptitude. That time is over — be it the Lord of the Rings movies, Harry Potter, or the juggernaut that is Game of Thrones, medieval escapism is now big business and bigger tourism draws. So throw your cloak about your shoulders, buckle on your shining blade (+2 damage), and let’s take a tour through a romanced time that never existed…but we sure wish it did.
There is a good chance that there is Ren Faire of some sort near you, but a few stand out nationally: The New York Renaissance Faire, the Northern California Renaissance Faire, the Texas Renaissance Faire and the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire are big-budget blowouts complete with knights, jousts, live-action role playing that involve attendees in the fun, and even such spectacles as jousts involving flaming whips. A quick Internet search will not only pick up the biggies around you, but some of the smaller ones that still make for a good day trip.
If comic book geeks have the ComicCons, Dark Age antiquarians have Ren Faires, and the two often blend when it comes to who goes. For those still unfamiliar with the concept, going to one of these things is a crash-course into getting your Conan mojo going. Each faire is actually an elaborately-staged and choreographed spectacle with dramas and mysteries that each play out daily thanks to an army of actors weaving among the attendees, who are often roped in to the fun. And while the dress may be Elizabethan, the humor is about as potty-mouthed as it can get…so long as you can get your head around all the “thee’s, thy’s and thou’s” not heard since Shakespeare’s day. If you want to get your butch on, hit the food tables: ales and beers come in tankards, joints of beef or mutton will be roasting on spits, and none of it will ever be mentioned in the Robb Report.
Also, it pays to look the part. If you thought my mentioning cloaks and swords was just snappy dialog, think again. Many fairs offer discounts to people wearing their cosplay best. You may find yourself chatting with a guy in full-body armor perusing the blacksmith for swords and maces (real ones) and be surprised to find out he’s a civilian. The woman resplendent in 1500’s Venetian garb right down to the ghastly-white face paint and flaming red cheeks may actually be your mild-mannered CPA.
Of course, it is only very mildly true to the actual Renaissance, but don’t spoil the fun by shooting holes in the plot. Besides, you could probably rock a breastplate. Be Sure to contact Steele Luxury Travel to assist with all of your luxury travel planning needs. www.SteeleTravel.com