Sterling Renaissance Festival 2012

To celebrate my birthday, I wanted to go to the Sterling Renaissance Festival.  I've never been to one before so I didn't really know what to expect.  I LOVED it. The best part of the festival were the people involved and the music playing throughout the day.  Each of the participants stayed in character.  They were very friendly, engaging and hilarious. 

One of the highlights of the festival for me was the jousting event (scroll down to the bottom for more pictures of that).  Keep in mind when you're planning your trip to the festival that there are two jousting events.  One at noon and the other at 5:45 p.m.  The festival is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The festival has lots of games to choose from for all ages.  There are rides for kids (maze, merry go round) as well as games for adults (archery, knife and axe throwing, ball toss etc.).  There are also horses and camels to ride!  

I have to mention a game called Tomato Justice.  I initially felt bad for the guy being pelted with tomatoes until I heard him talk.  All he does is insult those trying to throw tomatoes at him.  He's really good at it and I haven't laughed that hard in a long time.  Be forewarned -- not even children are not spared from his taunts.  The one who finally got him was a little girl.  That was awesome.  Too bad I didn't get a picture of her.  The crowd cheered!  Her father was so proud. 

There are so many lovely costumes, jewelry and headpieces for sale.  I was so tempted to purchase one of these pretty flower crowns with colorful ribbons dangling down but the inner crafter in me couldn't spend $20 - $38 dollars on one of these.  If you're not interested in purchasing a costume, there is a costume rental.  After renting your costume, you can have your hair braided too!

The best characters were the ones randomly walking around, in the game booths and, oddly enough, those walking around trying to sell food (pretzels, beef jerky, candied nuts).  They all seem to have a sense of humor despite it being nearly 90 degrees outside.

 

There are a number of crafts to choose from, watch or participate in.  Glass blowing, rope making, wood carving, drawing -- there are too many to mention.  The craft stations are scattered around among mini theater arenas for music and various entertainment.

The drinks are priced rather steep and so if you're looking for a cheap refreshing snack look for the fruit cart.  Slices of watermelon are only $1 each.  The festival offers gyro sandwiches, fish and chips, wine slushies, root beer floats, a variety of coffee beverages and much more.

On to the joust!

Try to get to the joust 20 minute prior to the event to get the best seat as it is very popular.  If you happen to attend the late afternoon joust, you definitely want to get there early so you can choose the side that is shaded.

The festival wouldn't be complete without a nod to the queen. 

I hope you enjoyed this blog post!