Knights and Days to Remember
I love this time of year! Not necessarily the summer with its heat and humidity, but more the waning days of summer that strike my fancy! Seeing the stores well stocked with back to school items and the roadside farm stands with an abundance of corn, ripe peaches and thick red tomatoes tells me that soon — very soon — the Ren Faire will be here!
The New York Renaissance Faire is an end of summer tradition for many of us. The faire is part theatre, part fair and lots and lots of magic. For seven or eight weekends each year, Sterling Forest in Tuxedo Park, NY is transported back to 16th Century England, complete with costumed actors, a village full of shops and wares that are sure to tempt every lord and lady, and loads of entertainment.
As you will quickly learn, the Ren Faire is nothing like anything you have ever seen or heard. Employees must speak at all times in the thick English accent of the era — and by the time you leave you will be speaking the same way! There are jousts on horseback, mud shows, knife throwing, birds of prey, turtle races, Shakespeare, a human chess match, strolling minstrels and so much more. Faire food is not like other fair food — soup in a bread bowl and the ever famous turkey legs are faire favorites, along with burgers, baked potatoes, and fruit platters. And to wash it all down, try the Mead!
Tips for Doing the Ren Faire:
Wear comfortable shoes — there is a lot of walking.
Dress cool. If you go in faire garb, be prepared for the heat. Visitors can always rent faire garb inside the gates.
Bring a tote bag — the shopping is great! You will find things at faire you could never find at a mall.
Bring a camera — there are images here you will never find anywhere else.
Bring antibacterial soap or hand cleanser.
Bring sunscreen.
Bring lots of money — most shops accept credit cards but have extra cash for food, games and tips.
Get there early or later in the day to find better parking and shorter lines.
Bring a bottle of water and a snack — you will need a pick-me-up after hours of walking, and water in particular is vitally important on hot days.