The New York Renaissance Faire will be opening it’s gates next weekend to another season of medieval revelry.  This is one of my favorite Renaissance Festivals, and here are ten reasons why…

1.  The Color

Vibrant color leaps out at you as you frolic through this Faire, whether it’s the bright silk of a medieval merchant woman’s gown, the sparkling pink wings of a fairy, or multihued banners flapping softly in the breeze.  Bring your camera, you’ll find plenty of photographic inspiration.

2.  The Setting

Located in hilly Tuxedo Park, New York,  woods, greenery and lakes make up  the idyllic setting for this Faire.  It almost feels like a medieval summer camp for adults.  And for kids and familes.  Wouldn’t that be nice?

 3.  The Food

What can I say? They have everything you can imagine you’d want to eat.  Turkey legs.  Funnel cake.  Chicken strips and chips.  Soup in a bread bowl. Ice cream, cheeseteak-on-a-stick.

And the drinks?  they’ve got awesome pubs.  I recommend the Blue Boar Inn for the atmosphere.  It’s got a shady hill with seating so you can relax while having a beer.  Just bring some money, plenty of it, if you want to drink more than a few cups of mead.

Sit down, relax, and strike up a conversation with the Barkeep.  It doesn’t get any better than this.

4.  The People

They’re all fun and friendly, some are unusual, but no matter what, before you know it, you’ll make friends all over the village.

5.  The Musicians

Everywhere you go you are entertained.  The music is fabulous, whether you’re into the fiddle, celtic harp and bodhran, bagpipes, or the soft sounds of a lone hammered dulcimer.

One of my favorites from past years was Wolgemut, named after the German word for “to be in a good mood”.  I don’t think they’ll be here this year but I’m looking forward to hearing something new!

6.  The Entertainment

It’s everywhere.  You’ll have to make choices.  But even if you choose to just wander the Faire and see what’s going on where you end up, you’ll have a good time.

From the fire-juggler who stands on stilts to the bellydancers whose passion for the dance shows in every move they make, from the comedic Pirate Vixens to Robin Hood and his Merry Men, there’s plenty to entertain.  And what can compete with jousting?

 7.  The Games

If you fancy yourself an archery champ, or want to try your hand at ax throwing, knife throwing or a ring toss, among other games, step right up and give it a shot.  The archery range was especially popular while we were there.  It’s definitely a lot of fun.

8. The Artisans

More than 100 talented artisans are in the Village Marketplace this year, showcasing everything from soft, supple leather to gold jewelry to renaissance clothing and hand-blown glass.  There’s a lot to see.

They are so talented, their wares so varied, you could spend the whole day exploring their colorful shops.  Whether you visit the Royal Candle Maker, the quality costumers called Moresca, or intricate jewelry-makers such as Argenti, you’re bound to find things you want to bring home with you.

Kids can have their faces painted, their hair braided, or buy a new puppet.

9.  The Fairies

Speaking of kids, this year the Faire has fairies!  And they’re wonderfully inquisitive creatures.  You can find them around the Village or in the Enchanted Forest or along the Forest Walk.

10.  The Rose Girls

They work hard, so give them a break and buy a rose.  And, (and this comes from experience), if you make a promise to buy one later, they’ll remember you, so follow through!

Tip:  Take your rose to the Royal Candle Maker’s shop to have it dipped in wax.  It will last longer.