The Northwest Renaissance Festival
This month-long festival in eastern Washington provides a fun time for those of all ages. Bring the kids along to teach them about this historical period. Test your skills (or your kids' skills) at one of the many themed games, with prizes to be won. Cheer for your favorite knight at the simulated jousting events; you and your kids will have a blast watching the exciting live action. Tattoo yourselves, (with henna, not the real thing) have your face painted and learn your fortune from one of the elaborately-dressed gypsies. Don't forget to pick up some of the beautifully-crafted art, jewelry and swords, if you are into such things. There is plenty of food and drinks to fuel you through your time at the festival. If you are feeling particularly inspired; take a chainmail making class. Chances are you will be the only one of your friends who can claim to be able to make chainmail. Performers and vendors vary from year to year, so there are always exciting new aspects of the festival to explore each year.
The Northwest Renaissance Festival
Nine Mile Falls, Washington
nwrf.net/
Shrewsbury Renaissance Faire
With over 1,000 participants, the award-winning Shrewsbury Renaissance Faire is a grand event that is widely attended each year in Kings Valley, Oregon. Show off your medieval spirit by attending the faire fully-attired in Renaissance garb. If you don't quite have all that you need to complete the look, the Faire has plenty of vendors and little shops for you to purchase the finishing touch. The Shrewsbury Renaissance Faire is modeled on the times of Shakespeare and Elizabeth I, set in period of time from 1558-1603. Dance with dancers that roam through the festival, interact with the actors, speaking their language while learning about this historic time period. Come hungry, as there are plenty of food options that will satisfy you and keep you going. Take plenty of photos as your child enjoys themselves on a pony ride. You can even rent a costume for the day, fully embodying the Renaissance spirit and excitement. Cheer loudly for your favorite knight as they joust inside the Tournament Fyld or kick back with some food and drink as you take in one of the various shows on the stages throughout the Shrewsbury Village.
Shrewsbury Renaissance Faire
Kings Valley, Oregon
shrewfaire.com/
Washington Renaissance Fantasy Faire
Relive Renaissance history in all its glory at the annual Washington Renaissance Fantasy Faire, in the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area. Watch in awe the Cavallo Equestrian Arts horseback Riders, which will amaze and delight people of all ages. Not only do they perform dazzling jousting tournaments, but they also compete in rings, capture the flag and the gauntlet competitions, putting their incredible skills to the test. In addition, there is a Gypsy Horse performance, which includes daredevil Cossack riding, horseback juggling and acrobatics. Cool off with cold beverages and food while enjoying one of the numerous artistic performances, including plays, magic shows, dance shows and musical performances. There are even plays geared for the little ones, which will educate them in a fun and memorable manner. Interact with the wandering actors, portraying different Renaissance villager-type roles. Gear up with battle-ready weapons and armor, chainmail purses and accessories, along with stunning jewelry and fine Renaissance-style clothing.
Washington Renaissance Fantasy Faire
Gig Harbor, Washington
washingtonrenfaire.com/
