Renaissance Pleasure Faire once a year- May 2014

     So I had the “pleasure” of attending, for the first time, the Renaissance Pleasure Faire, here in Los Angeles (Irwindale, to be exact) this past weekend. Having lived in LA my entire life, I had heard many cool things about this annual tradition since I was a child, all of which proved to be true, as I had a wonderful time and highly recommend attending to anyone else.

 

     When I first showed up, I was immediately drawn to the wonderful period costumes worn by both the workers, as well as by many of the attendees.  I was actually accompanied by my friend (pictured), who wore a fantastic home made costume of Merida from Disney’s “Brave.”  Anyone who knows who this character is can only imagine what a hit she was at the archery booth (they actually gave her FREE arrows to shoot, they liked her so much).   And so many attendees (especially children) flocked to take pictures with her!  In addition to the archery booth, there were also other contest booths, like throwing a large plastic egg into a basketball hoop, a sledge hammer bell ringing contest, an ax throwing booth, and a cross bow shooting at an actual Knight in armor booth.  There were also several fun rides that were exciting enough for adults, but not at all too scary for most children.  Every worker there was in such a good, jolly mood, too, and you can tell they really love their “job.”  Oh, and speaking of such jobs, be sure to check out the Jousting event held periodically throughout the day, which features an entertaining MC and two Knights staging contests aboard their horses, right out of King Arthur’s court.

 

     The food and beverages are fun and tasty, too, especially the large turkey legs you eat just like a Viking would have eaten, along with a tasty cup of Mead, which actually got me slightly buzzed.  And for those of us really looking to get a tiny bit intoxicated, be sure to indulge in a Pony Ride drink (just ask the servers to blend you one!).  Be sure and have sufficient cash, though, as they do not accept credit cards at the food and beverage booths (they do, however, accept credit card payment for your entry).

 

     OK, so with one week to go, make sure you check out this great, family friendly experience, known as the Renaissance Pleasure Faire, or you will have to wait another year—-you’ll be glad you did!      More at www.renfair.com