Mike Parker: 3rd Renaissance Faire brings bygone years to life
The Lenoir County Fairgrounds will be transported back to when King Arthur ruled at Camelot, and his knights took their place at the roundtable. The 3rd Renaissance Faire promises to be bigger and better than ever.
But just what is a Renaissance Faire?
A Renaissance Faire is a recreation of a Renaissance or Medieval village. The Faire is held outdoors as a weekend gathering for education and entertainment. Featured events include costumed actors, period-accurate crafts, and games to give patrons the illusion that they have stepped back in time.
The Eastern North Carolina Renaissance Faire hosts Vikings, pirates, fairies, and fantasy folk in an outdoor weekend that strives to recreate a combination of historical and fantastic settings for the amusement of its guests. This year’s ENC Renaissance Faire will kick off each day, with gates opening at 10 a.m. on April 13 and 14, and activities running until 6 p.m.
Four stages will compete for your attention: Sir Robert’s Stage, the Royale Stage, the Enchanted Glade Stage, and the Copper Rose Pub & Garden Stage. Acts range from the comedy of the Misfits of Fortune to the Cockatoo Experience to the Celtic Conundrum.
In addition, three jousting tournaments will occur on the Field of Honor. At 11 a.m., the Queen’s Joust will pit knight against knight. At 1:30 p.m., the Pirate’s Joust will feature buccaneer against swash-buckler, and 5 p.m. will offer the Queen and Viking Joust.
What is the cost of the two days of entertainment? General Admission is $25 when purchased online. With valid ID, seniors (65+) and veterans can enter this magical world for $15, as can First Responders—those designated or trained to respond to an emergency. Faire officials will check your photo ID at the gate to qualify you for discounted admission.
The price for children between the ages of seven and 12 years is $20, and children six and under are admitted free.
Parking for this event is free. Handicapped parking close to the Faire entrance is also available. The Faire does not rent wheelchairs or carts. Since the grounds are flat, organizers encourage patrons who need this type of assistance to bring their own equipment.
Tickets are available at the event and online at STRIDE EVENTS. You can also score special ticket perks if you become an ENCRF sponsor. Visit the website for more information about becoming a sponsor, volunteer, or performer. The website is https://www.encrenfaire.com/
The ENC Renaissance Faire will be held “rain or shine.” If necessary, the Fair will remain open and present entertainment under 40-by-80 tents. Some entertainment acts will move indoors in the event of rain. In the case of severe weather, ENCRF Management will advise the guests and participants of a pending closure. Check local weather forecasts or contact the Fair for any weather updates.
ENCRF does not offer refunds or ticket exchanges in the event of poor weather or closures.
Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the Renaissance Faire. Personal bags are allowed but are subject to search. Food and drink are available for purchase on-site. Guests with allegories or medical dietary needs are exempt from the “outside food and beverage” policy. Infants and babies are also exempt.
The Renaissance Faire is an animal-friendly event. Dogs, cats, birds, or other animals must always remain on leashes or within carriers. The owner is responsible for cleaning up after their pet. Patrons not adhering to these conditions may be asked to leave the event.
Please be sure to bring plenty of water for your pet since temperatures can sometimes get high in April. No pet should be left in a vehicle.
One further caution regarding animals: The Faire has active cannon fire demonstrations throughout the day. If these loud noises will distress your pets, please consider leaving them at home.
Alcoholic beverages will be available, but anyone who wishes to consume alcohol must show proper identification. Valid IDs include a state-issued driver’s license or state-issued ID card with a photo, a passport, or a United States military identification card with a photo. The Faire is unable to accept foreign driver’s licenses. Also, valid identification cannot have expired at the time of the festival.
Since the Faire occurs in Eastern North Carolina, weather conditions can vary from hot and humid to cool, wet, and windy. Check the weather reports before you come to the Faire and dress appropriately. The Faire requires people to wear shoes, and organizers recommend closed-toed footwear. Given the lack of shade at the fairgrounds, wearing a head covering is a good idea.
En garde: Prepare to enjoy yourself as you travel through time.
Mike Parker is a columnist for the Neuse News. You can reach him at mparker16@gmail.com.
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