Renaissance Faire Presents Camelot

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King Arthur makes a proclamation to the Saxon King Hengust for a tournament to decide who shall be King of Camelot. The Knights of the Round Table, Queen Guinevere, and others listen to the most noble Arthur as he fights for peace. (Photo by Caila Grigoletti)

 

Here ye, brave lads and lasses, this past September on the weekend of the 23 was the annual Warren County Renaissance Faire. If you are the type of person who enjoys seeing knights fight for glory and honor, then you will love this festival!

The Renaissance Faire, sponsored by the 4-H organization, is a small affair with big potential. It is a look into the world’s past and how people used to live and fight. Events such as the Knight’s Joust, tournament combat, and live music are scattered throughout the day so visitors are thoroughly entertained. Think of it as a theatre production, reenacting the Arthurian tale with historically accurate costumes and exciting combat sequences.

At half past noon, the Royal Procession gathered at the King’s Pavilion to discuss the ongoing war with the Saxons.

            “King Hengust will not listen to reason, I don’t think he is capable of reason. He will not yield, he won’t lay down his arms even when defeated,” King Arthur Pendragon said.

After several minutes of debate on whether or not they should risk the crown in a competition against the savage Saxons, drumbeats resounded and a party of almost 20 Saxon warriors marched into the square. The Saxon king, Hengust, was more than eager to accept Arthur’s challenge, but he needed to make one thing clear

“Take no life, my men. But give no quarter. Is that understood?” Hengust commanded his war band.

The knights and barbarians from both sides rose to join the competition, eager to please their leaders. The first round of combat ensued, heated battles between the Saxons and Arthur’s Knights. Swords clashed against shields. Each warrior fought till they either yielded or bested their opponent.

The amount of skill to become a knight of the realm is staggering, explained Sir Lancelot.

“It takes several years and of course, the more training you put in anything, the better you become,” Lancelot said after his victory in the first round.

After the opening bout was through, the visitors had about an hour’s worth of time to shop and feast. The Warren Hills Wrestling Club provided the food for the Faire. Small businesses also provided interesting souvenirs and memorabilia centered on the Renaissance theme.

Heralds announced the next round of the tournament and other important shows that were happening in other sections of the Fairgrounds. The amount of entertainment was well-thought through. And even though the weekend was scorching hot, and all the performers had to wear heavy furs or metal plated armor, they soldiered on, giving their audience a story to remember.

“It is a wonderful show, family friendly,” said Lancelot, “It’s a fantastic storyline with many great performers. You get to experience the culture and the music and the sights and festivities of days gone by and the Knights of the Round Table. So, come visit us yearly!”